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Be sure to know the whole pipeline story TO THE EDITOR: It is imperative that landowners potentially impacted by Elba Express Pipeline in counties from Wrens GA to Anderson SC know "the entire story" not just the part being told by Elba representatives. Two years ago, a group of less than twenty landowners from McDuffie, Wilkes, and Elbert Counties banded together and formed "Landowners for Environmental and Economic Protection" (LEEP) and presently is the only landowner group with intervener status regarding the pipeline. Landowners from the Hart, Warren, Glascock, and Jefferson have joined the effort with their voices and support. The group has grown considerably. Attorneys Ed Hallman and Richard Wingate with Decker, Hallman, Barber & Briggs (DHBB) in Atlanta represent LEEP and have methodically taken all of the legal steps set forth by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to oppose the use of eminent domain by this private company whose documented purpose is to increase profitsfor themselves and two foreign oil companies. On behalf of LEEP, attorneys have now filed an appeal in Federal Court, DC Circuit. Elba ROW agents are making a "hard press" at this time to procure easements. Some landowners have signed agreements relinquishing control over their property. If Elba has a signed agreement for an easement, they can certainly begin clearing and prepping the land for the pipe. There may be increased activity along with higher visibility of pipeline employees in company vehicles and big equipment as a "show of presence and power" which seems to be the stock and standard operating procedure for projects like this; BUT the fact remains that LEEP's appeal must be heard in Federal Court. If Elba begins condemnation proceedings, there is an option for the landowner. One can filefor injunctive relief until the appeal is heard which is exactly what will happen for anyone that is a client of DHBB. Elba is well aware of this. In the meantime, landowners need to double check everything they are told, ask for details in writing, tape discussions with pipeline reps if possible, BUT avoid signing agreements until a ruling on LEEP's appeal is issued by the Federal Court. Landowners are also reporting that pipeline agents are insinuating that some of the larger landowners and members of LEEP have decided to support the pipeline. Those named have been contacted, and they say this is not true.
Are you going to believe private companies desiring to increase their profits(at your expense) $54 million annually by avoiding tariffs or other landowners who are in the same boat as you? |
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