DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — A group that opposes an oil pipeline across Iowa says the regulatory board overseeing its potential approval is limiting public comments on the project.
Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement says the Iowa Utilities Board will only hear comments from roughly 200 people when it holds a public hearing on Nov. 12 in Boone. Attendees will be given up to two minutes each to speak, and comments will be switched between those who oppose and support the project.
Iowa CCI says that creates a “false illusion” of equal opposition and support. They say their internal tally shows Iowa residents overwhelmingly oppose the pipeline, which would move crude oil through parts of North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa and Illinois.
Don Tormey, a board spokesman, says he disagrees with Iowa CCI’s assessment.
