Gas Pipeline Debate Continues, Community Voice Grows Louder

CLINT, TX. – The fight between county residents and a Mexican oil company continues even after a public meeting meant to help the company’s cause.

Neighbors in East El Paso County saya natural gas pipeline would run too close to their property for comfort, but the law is on the company’s side.PMI, a company that’s part of the Mexican state-owned energy company Pemex – wants to run a petroleum line through a portion of East El Paso County.

Commissioners didn’t take any formal action Monday. Residents met withPMI officials at a public meetingMonday night. Company officials wanted to explain where the pipeline would go, and why it would be good to put one in.

They also took questions from the residents, but those residents are still not happy with the explanation. “You’re taking away my liberty, you’re threatening my life andI don’t know how otherwise to pursue the happiness but by reforming the other two,” said one residentof Clint.

“Are you putting economics in front of the safety of our children? Is that what you just said?” added another. The company denies any immediate safety hazards. PMI officials would not speak to ABC-7 atthe meeting.

— Written for broadcast by Rachel Abell

— Edited for the web by Miguel Martinez