Why YOU should care...

Why should you care if Chesapeake puts a pipeline on Carter Avenue in Fort Worth?

Because if it happens here, it can happen anywhere.

YOU could be next.

The gas company can show up and claim your yard. They'll offer you a small amount for it (IT being the loss of use, loss of value, loss of safety and security for the rest of your life) and if you say no? Then they will take you to court and take it by eminent domain.

Over a year ago the gas drillers showed up in their slick suits and shiny cars, on this beautiful tree lined street with its multi-cultural families and begin intimidating and bullying the residents into submission. Some residents on Carter have limited English skills. Some are disabled. Some are elderly. The gas company offered a minimal amount of money for their property, their safety and peace of mind.

One neighbor made a lot of noise and got some media attention. That neighbor got more money. Not enough, but what are your options really?

If you refused to sign you were told they will take you to court and sue you for your own property. They will get their way and you will get nothing. (Ever seen Grapes of Wrath? Durango has an excellent point, be sure and watch the video.) Think about this, how does a family making a small income hire an attorney to fight the biggest industry in the city? One that is IN with the city? Residents would need money for an attorney, time to take off work, transportation to and from court, child care and so forth. Since you have no choice, all you can do is sign, life as you once knew it is now over.

That leads us to the lone hold out. The one person still willing to say no, you cannot take my land, my home, my safety to pump gas down my street. An individual willing to stand up for what is right and just. This resident has appeared in court against the big industry alone. They have learned as much about the shady dealings of the industry as can be learned. They are also still being ignored by Fort Worth city leadership and, for the most part, metroplex media.

The reporters came in full force to the meeting on Carter last week, and after their 30 second sound bite on air, it was all but forgotten. This, even though the reporters the Lone Resident spoke with were shocked and disgusted by the deceptive tactics being used last week by the gas industry. The reporters also thought this issue had been laid to rest. It was, during the recent Fort Worth elections. The industry hoped no one was paying attention anymore. More people are paying attention than they think. All of us should be.

We are told that Chesapeake plans to lay the pipeline next month, even though they do not have the proper permits or permission from the Lone Resident hold out. Arrogant? They can afford to be. When you have unlimited resources and the backing of the Mayor and council, WHO is going to tell you no?

The residents of Fort Worth, that's WHO.

Stay tuned...