(Harlan, Iowa) – The Shelby County Board of Supervisors, passed an Ordinance amending various sections of the County’s Zoning Ordinance, with regard to the transporting of hazardous liquid through a pipeline. 202201025 MINUTES Their action was in response to a proposed Summit Carbon Solutions carbon capture and sequestration project that would transport up to 12 million metric tons of carbon dioxide (“CO2″) annually from participating industrial facilities in Iowa, as well as CO2 from facilities in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska to a sequestration site in North Dakota, where the CO2 will be permanently stored. The pipeline, which would pass through the town limits of Earling, has not yet been approved by the Iowa Utilities Board (IUB), which has the final say.

Prior to approving the amended ordinance, the Board held a public hearing on the matter. First to speak was Regional Water General Manager Tom Comb, who mentioned that Regional Water has not been contacted by anyone about installation of a pipeline and rural water concerns. There are an estimated twelve waterline main crossings planned by the pipeline in Shelby County alone. Comb stated that imminent domain issues concern regional water because at this time, money for any required moving of water lines must be absorbed by Regional water if imminent domain is used. Among other who spoke:

• Rick Chipman a grain and livestock producer, said safety was his main concern He has employees and family within steps of the proposed route. Livestock protocols for any pipeline accidents and permanent damage to conservation related practices on his operation is a concern.
• Jennifer Barnett, Superintendent of the Harlan Community Schools spoke about student and faculty safety. Economic stability is important to any taxing authorities.
• Gene Gettys, Harlan City Administrator mentioned that the Harlan City Council has passed a resolution of support for the Board of Supervisors actions, regarding the pipeline. Limitations to any future development is a concern. Placing a hazardous pipeline has possibilities of limiting economic development.
• Jan Reinig spoke next thanking the residents and Board of Supervisors in their efforts to make the pipeline safe and create less damage to the County.
• Mary Powell spoke of her property having old water pipelines and her concern for damage that may be done to those water lines.
• and, Sherry Webb thanked the Board of Supervisors for their efforts. Concerns for the safety of confinement animals and humans were expressed by Ms. Webb.

After the Board closed the hearing, a motion was made and seconded before the Ordinance was adopted unanimously, as proposed. The amended Ordinance – which sets the terms and conditions under which any such proposed pipeline request may be granted- becomes effective Jan. 1, 2023. Officials with Summit have said the Ordinance is “inconsistent” with Iowa law.