To the editor:
The PUC held public meetings on the CO2 pipeline and the issue of the use of eminent domain by this company.
The South Dakota PUC was 100 percent validated for their denial of a Permit for this CO2 pipeline project. The South Dakota Supreme Court validated their decision as well as the voters, who did so twice at the ballot box. In the 2024 South Dakota primary elections, the voters defeated all but one legislative incumbent who were in support of the pipeline and SB 201. The voters also soundly defeated the SB 201 referral in all but Union county [the home of Dakota Dunes].
The South Dakota Supreme Court ruled on four issues:
1 The court ruled that the CO2 pipeline company could not prove they are common carriers.
2.. The Court ruled that the CO2 pipeline company did not follow the law by withholding information from landowners.
3. The Court ruled that the CO2 pipeline company was not following the county ordinances. We continue to receive reports that the CO2 pipeline company continues to harass landowners with threats of eminent domain to acquire right of way easements.
4. The Court ruled that the CO2 Pipeline Company could no longer survey without landowner permission.
By the pipeline companys own admission the project is not feasible without a huge taxpayer subsidy.
South Dakotans feel this project is a huge threat to the environment, human life and the publics health and safety!
The PUC has ruled that the CO2 pipeline company did not comply with county ordinances.
If they do not comply then the PUC must deny once again!
If you wish to comment on the PUC docket concerning this issue go to the PUC website docket HP24-001 or send a written letter to:
South Dakota PUC
500 East Capitol
Pierre, South Dakota 57501
Frank Kloucek
Scotland
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