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Deal Approved To Allow Drilling In 2 Beaver Co. Parks

BEAVER (KDKA) - It was a unanimous vote between Beaver County commissioners on Thursday to allow PennEnergy Resources to drill at the Old Economy Park, as well as Brush Creek Park.

Commissioners say this is a win-win for everyone, but there are still those who don't agree.

Opponents spoke out at a public hearing Thursday morning before the commissioners' vote.

One woman said, "I really wish you wouldn't do this. I think this is horrendous."

They're worried about the immediate future and well beyond.

A man who lives close to one park said, "I'm worried about it because it's a beautiful place and it shouldn't be messed with."

They deal, nearly $3.1 million, will be paid upfront to the county for PennEnergy Resources to lease the land for oil and gas drilling. The county will also get 17 percent royalties on production.

"We have a chance here to move our county forward. This is a game changer for us," Tony Amadio, a Beaver County commissioner said.

Most people's concerns deal with contamination of air and water. Claims, PennEnergy's CEO personally addressed.

"It disappoints me that there's no accountability for those unsubstantiated allegations, and I think it's offensive to certainly myself and the hundreds of the thousands that work in our industry in Pa.," Richard Weber said.

County commissioners say it's unclear at this point when the drilling will begin. They say that is up to PennEnergy.

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