Want to know what it feels like to be in the path of a gas pipeline project? It’s like the Clint Eastwood movie “High Plains Drifter”. The town’s officials turn their back on their sheriff and allow outlaws to whip him to death in the middle of the street.
We too, feel abandoned by local officials as they tout the virtues of the large corporations who are promising wealth and prosperity. At the same time our elected officials taunt all those with opposing views, publicly calling them “you people”.
It’s hurtful to have nowhere to turn for help. Federal, State, County and Local government meet regularly to build support for their economic vision. They pledge loud support for progress and choose to ignore the sacrifices of their neighbors. But don’t worry they say, you will get paid a fair market value. Yea, right!
Our neighbor was quoted $5,000 for the 100 ft. wide by nearly 600 ft. long right of way. Every spoken word from our Mayor is like a knife in our back. Be a good citizen he says on the radio, grin and bear it in the name of the greater good, “you people”.
Clint Eastwood came back as a ghost to seek revenge on the town and outlaws. No such option for us, other than at the polls. I guess we need to get busy spreading the word that if you are in need of help in Shamokin Dam, PA don’t expect it to come from the mayor or borough council.
Don O’Hora |
