Writer says fracking is a Warwick issue

I was glad to be part of Sustainable Warwick’s effort to open a public discussion of fracking with the forum, “Fracking—Pros and Cons: What Warwick Needs to Know,” on Sept. 20. Such a complex issue can’t be covered in one event and I’m hopeful this discussion will continue.
I’m concerned that we in Warwick might feel fracking will not directly affect us. However, extensive drilling planned for Pennsylvania and possibly in New York could result in demand for more pipelines and compressor stations in or very near Warwick.
We could also be in the path of truck traffic resulting in damage to roads, noise, more congestion, and potential accidents, including toxic spills.
Though the gas-rich Marcellus shale is not under our feet, the deeper Utica shale does run under part of Warwick and might at some point become attractive to the gas industry. Leases could be signed before most people in the town, including town governments, are even aware of it.
Currently in New York State, home rule allows municipalities to determine what can be done within their boundaries unless state laws and regulations already exist which overrule them.
If Gov. Cuomo approves fracking in New York State, municipalities will not be able to prevent this industrial activity within their borders. This is why about 130 municipalities in the state, from small villages to cities as large as Buffalo and Rochester, have passed a ban or moratorium against fracking.
Once the door is opened to this industry, we will not have a choice.
Our current Comprehensive Plan is committed to development that preserves the rural and agricultural character of our town and protects its scenic beauty. Studies on the economic effects of fracking and related activities are finding it harms both agriculture and tourism, two economic engines of Warwick.
Considering the information presented by both John Conrad and Carl Arnold, I feel sure that gas fracking and its related activities here would ruin what people love about Warwick and what so many have worked hard to preserve.

Mary Makofske
Warwick