Date: Wed, 17 Jun 2009
From: ferrioli.sen@state.or.us
My Dear Friends,
Early in the legislative session, I was visited by former Senator Ken Messerle and former Representative John Watt who are now working on LNG issues in Coos Bay and Southern Oregon. These former colleagues from rural Oregon are veterans of many battles to strengthen and sustain the economic base of rural communities. They made a good case for linear facilities as an engine of economic development in rural communities.
Regarding HB3058, they argued that changing the order of application for Division of State Lands for fill and removal permits would not diminish the rights of landowners in questions involving condemnation.
Many of you have written, called and emailed with your concerns that as property owners, your right to the quiet enjoyment of your land supersedes the convenience of utility companies engaged in constructing linear facilities.
As a result of your direction on the matter, I agree. In carefully weighing the concept of the public good against the rights of individuals and families, I conclude that protecting the peaceful use and enjoyment of private property far outweighs the benefit of allowing those with no ownership interest to become the applicant on fill and removal permits.
Therefore, in consideration of your direction, I will vote “no” on HB3058 and I will oppose it.
Sincerely, Senator Ted Ferrioli
District 30 – John Day, Oregon
Senate Republican Leader
Please send your thank yous to Senator Ferrioli at the above email address!
