On November 7, you will be asked to vote on an Amendment to Bowling Green’s City Charter. Even if you are against pipelines, I urge you to vote no on the proposed Amendment. The type of language contained in this Amendment will keep new businesses from locating in Bowling Green and will drive existing businesses out. Simply put, it promotes anarchy. It will also cause the city great expense to defend because its constitutionality is certain to be challenged.
Let me be clear that I do not question the sincerity of the local group of activists pushing this initiative. I believe the local organizers genuinely wish to ensure a healthy environment for future generations. Unfortunately, the initiative they are pushing is deeply flawed, and I do not believe it was authored by the local organizers. The proposed Amendment goes way beyond its stated purpose of banning pipelines, lacks basic definitions, is vague, confusing and leaves me wondering if the author has a hidden agenda. For example, it extends rights to “natural communities” and “ecosystems”, then goes on to state “the right shall include the right to be free from new infrastructure for fossil fuel”, but is completely open ended as to what other rights it extends. The language allows any citizen enforcement rights using “non-violent direct action” with direct action defined as “any activities carried out to directly enforce . . . this Amendment.” It further states that “City of Bowling Green law enforcement . . . shall have no lawful authority . . .” to intervene. Please take time to read the Amendment which can be found at www.co.wood.oh.us/BOE/ under Questions and Issues List. Then vote no on this poorly written Amendment.
Ben Otley, President
Bowling Green Economic Development
