Dozens of residents joined at the DeKalb Public Library over concerns for several pipeline projects in the U.S.
Dave Davis, an organizer of the event, says the people should be aware of the potential effects of pipelines.
Enbridge operates a line throughsouthern Wisconsin and northern Illinois. The company has expanded the line in recent years and continues to add upgrades.
“This pipeline crosses the Kishwaukee River at various places. And if there’s a spill, we all know what happened in Kalamazoowith the spill there and what happened to the people," Davis said.
Davis also says the community should be a part of decision making processes.
“If the people of DeKalb County and the people of Illinois say, ‘Yes, I want these pipelines built,’ then, yeah, they should probably be built," Davis said. "But we don’t think those people are involved in a decision, and we’re going to give them an opportunity to be heard.”
Supporters say the pipelines will make it easier to transport more crude oil across the U.S. and will create jobs.
The group plans to hold additional meetings in the future.
