Second Informational Meeting on Natural Gas Pipeline June 16
Selectmen will host a second informational meeting on a proposed natural gas pipeline which will traverse northern sections of Groton on its way to a terminus in Dracut. The informational meeting will not focus specifically on siting issues or on the process but rather provide general information about natural gas including alternatives to natural gas as an energy source and how the pipeline may support the unregulated practice of hydro-fracking for natural gas in upstate New York and Pennsylvania. This second informational meeting will be held next Monday, June 16, in the Performing Arts Center at the middle school.
At the first informational meeting, residents learned a little more about the proposal and raised many issues and fears regarding its construction. Kinder Morgan is proposing construction of 250 miles of new pipeline into New England to improve natural gas supplies and minimize price spikes in natural gas as occurred during this past winter.
New England Governors and US Senators have all signed letters saying the infrastructure for delivering gas to New England is inadequate and needs to be improved. Demand for natural gas in New England has increased significantly as the region reduces its reliance on coal and oil for generating electricity. Some critics of the proposed pipeline say they fear the increase in gas supply could be used for export rather than meeting the needs of New England.
Kinder Morgan has not yet applied to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for a permit to construct the pipeline and is expected to do so in October.
Groton Selectman Jack Petropolous said the June 16 meeting will be educational and allow residents to gain a better understanding of the natural gas situation. Petropolous said he wasn't sure of the process to be used as the project moves forward. He noted that local zoning and bylaws would have little impact on siting the gas line as federal regulations would take precedence. Petropolous also said he wasn't sure if the state had any role in the proceedings or any impact on decision making.
Petropolous said that approximately 17 properties in Groton would be impacted by construction. These represent a mix of private properties, public and conservation lands. All are located in the northern Longley Rd. and Chicopee Row areas. Residents are upset by plans to construct the pipeline through their land because of the negative impact on their property values and the potential negative environmental impact.
