Should Broomfield voters support Question 301?

“Vote ‘no’ on Question 301 in Broomfield,” Oct. 6 endorsement.

Nobody should blame Broomfield residents for being concerned about their health and safety. The oil and gas industry wants to put its dangerous industrial operations right next to homes and schools in the middle of Broomfield neighborhoods. Question 301 merely requires safety considerations to take priority over the industry’s unchecked desire to drill anywhere at any time. That should not be too much to ask.

Since the oil and gas industry has already captured the state government, local communities are rightfully fighting back. It is the height of irony to see the oil and gas industry spend millions on commercials touting safety and then buckle down against a community-led initiative that would actually make it happen. Hopefully Broomfield will see through the industry’s smokescreen and vote for health and safety in November. ●●●

“Broomfield’s Question 301 will make oil and gas safer,” Oct. 14 guest commentary.

Despite what state Rep. Matt Gray and former Mayor Pat Quinn say, Broomfield is more divided than ever. Sadly, Question 301 is just the latest ploy to further tear at the fabric of our community.

First, some history: This summer, activists sought to recall a term-limited city councilman for having the courage to vote against an energy moratorium. Many of these same activists collected signatures for 301.

To see more of the divisiveness, look no further than the public comments at our City Council meetings. Recently, Broomfield Councilman Mike Shelton shared his disgust, saying, “The divisive comments, that kind of distracting rhetoric, it’s not been a positive for Broomfield. It’s been a negative for Broomfield.”

Hopefully Broomfield voters will put an end to this division and vote “no” on 301.