Minnehaha County commissioners voted on new zoning regulations for carbon dioxide pipelines in a 3½-hour public hearing. The proposed ordinance required setbacks from homes, churches, and businesses in rural areas. However, a tie vote and the Board Chairman's absence postponed the final verdict until June 6.
One key point of contention was the setback distance, with Commissioner Joe Kippley proposing an amendment to lower it from 750 feet to 330 feet. While he found support from Commissioner Dean Karsky, Commissioners Gerald Beninga and Jen Bleyenberg stood firm in backing the 750-foot setback.
The proposed regulations, the first of their kind in the county, are designed to govern "hazardous transmission pipelines," particularly Summit Carbon Solutions' project aimed at helping ethanol plants reduce their carbon emissions. Summit Carbon Solutions Project Manager for South Dakota, Aaron Eldridge, argued that the 750-foot setback would significantly hinder the pipeline's construction.
The debate also delved into the safety of pipelines, with some residents advocating for longer setbacks due to perceived risks. On the other side, a pipeline consultant highlighted the safety of carbon dioxide pipelines in the U.S., emphasizing that they are the safest means of commodity transportation.
The controversy revolves around the Minnehaha County decision, which may set a precedent for other regions, as the state Public Utilities Commission and a federal pipeline agency evaluate carbon dioxide lines' viability.
With differing opinions on setbacks and safety standards, the commissioners' ultimate goal is to strike a balance between economic development and public safety. As the pipeline issue continues to spark impassioned arguments, the county remains committed to preserving its communities while navigating a rapidly evolving energy landscape.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-jessicahyde
Categories: South Dakota, Energy