It also specifies that only a limited group of interested parties can file a grievance with the state commission. Alexander said the bill is an attempt to clarify jurisdictional conflict and avoid expensive lawsuits against the county by the industry and the state. There are times when local government isn't the best way. If we get a hodgepodge of different regulation, the state has to step in. Gail Aalund, director of the La Plata County Energy Council, said members of the state commission are highly educated and experienced in their field.
Local input is important and necessary, but only if done in a way that helps the process.
Other oil and gas representatives said that while the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission may have had its problems in the past, it has cleaned up its act in the last few years. Jerry Swingle, spokesman of the San Juan Citizens Alliance, questioned whether the state commission could remain impartial. He also pointed out that no noise experts serve on the commission. It is a big blow and I resent the hell out of it.