Saint John City Council Supports Land-Based Brunswick Pipeline Route
The Associated Press reports that the Saint John City Council has voted in favor of a land-based route for the proposed Brunswick Pipeline. City councilors had reportedly previously expressed a preference for a marine route. Saint John Mayor Norm MacFarlan rejects claims that the Council’s change in position is connected to a recently-promised $5.35 million endowment from the project’s sponsor, Emera. MacFarlan says that Emera’s endowment is not contingent on a favorable vote. Energy Central Professional carries the AP article. [Subscription required]
Meanwhile, some local residents in Saint John are protesting the proposed land route for the pipeline, which would pass through the city’s Rockwood Park. Canada’s National Energy Board began hearings on the proposed pipeline route yesterday, but in a separate article carried by The Boston Globe, the AP reports that some residents are not convinced that the Board will seriously consider their criticisms of the land route. One resident told the Board, “I think our chances here are pretty slim to nil.”