County Files Petition to Intervene;Navigator Heartland Greenway CO2 Pipeline

Sangamon County has filed a Petition for Leave to Intervene in the Navigator Heartland Greenway proposed CO2 pipeline docket now before the Illinois Commerce Commission. Sangamon County also plans to present for consideration by the County Board in October a moratorium on carbon dioxide pipeline construction. The timeframe for the moratorium has not yet been determined.

The County believes, after detailed research by legal counsel, that at this time it has clear authority to take these proactive steps, and in turn be responsive to those Sangamon County residents who have expressed concerns about the pipeline project. 

The Petition to Intervene reflects the County’s desire to be an official part of the process that the ICC establishes moving forward with the pipeline docket, including scheduling decisions and public and local government input. 

"The County Board feels strongly that a Petition to Intervene is a prudent step to address the concerns of Sangamon County residents. This petition will make the County an official part of the process." Andy Van Meter, Sangamon County Board Chairman 

At this time, a moratorium is justified given unresolved issues involving public health and safety concerns, continued research on zoning guidelines, potential impacts and remedies to the county highway system and proposed changes in state law. We feel that a moratorium will allow for a thorough review of these issues and give the County the information and answers that it is seeking on those matters.

The County understands that ultimately it may be determined, either through continued ongoing legal research, a ruling from a court of law, an ICC ruling or a change in state law, that it has no role in regulating the Navigator pipeline. Regardless, the County feels that it is taking the responsible and reasonable approach it is allowed to do so at this time on this important project, especially given ongoing questions and concerns. The petition to intervene and the proposed moratorium are meant to express, in particular to the Illinois Commerce Commission, the deep concerns of the citizens in our community who may be affected by the proposed construction of this pipeline.