At every opportunity, it seems, Michael Lamb stated that he will ban fracking in Allegheny County if elected, but I still have questions.
Fracking has made the corporate energy industry a big business in the U.S., but it has put us at much greater risk for negative outcomes. Evidence shows that it poses serious threats to our health, environment and climate future, including risks of hazardous spills, groundwater contamination and air pollution.
The next Allegheny County executive will have an opportunity to ban fracking countywide. But we cannot put our trust in the wrong person.
In his financial reports, Lamb notes large contributions from pro-fracking interests. He accepted the endorsement of Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, who not only supports another cracker plant in Allegheny County but also a large hydrogen hub fueled by fracking. This comes as the Shell cracker plant is shut down due to numerous significant safety issues raised by residents and major pollution events.
Lamb said he’s against fracking at forums, but his supporters and money say otherwise. Where does Lamb really stand?
We deserve a leader we can trust to ban fracking to protect our communities. Sara Innamorato is that choice come May 16.
Katie Blum
Millheim
The writer is political and legislative director for Conservation Voters of PA.