The News Leader
by Kenneth Hartzog

After recent permitting approvals for the Atlantic Coast Pipeline, I pray Virginia is able to come together and not succumb to rounds of protests and illegal delay tactics that have recently garnered national attention around several other, now completed, infrastructure projects.

I understand there will continue to be those upset by the project. I believe it is also important for opponents to recognize that, according to reports, over 80 percent of impacted landowners have come to an agreement with project leaders for appropriate easement compensation. That means a large majority of landowners have made peace with the project and are ready to see it completed.

Future attempts to delay the ACP will hurt thousands of workers relying on this job for their families, it will hurt the communities along the route that stand to benefit from increased economic activity, and it will hurt the local communities who could be forced to chip in law enforcement and other costs in order to protect their county’s residents from any excessive demonstrations. 

Debate in regards to the ACP has been fierce at times, but has most frequently resulted in tempered, respectful debate from individuals with many different perspectives. It is no news to anyone that in 2018, political and emotional tempers often flare up. I just ask that in Virginia we set an example to other states that disruptive and unruly activities that put local communities, workers, and safety officials purposefully into harm’s way will not be tolerated, no matter what the issue.

Kenneth Hartzog
Staunton

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