March 29, 2024

Eminent domain isn’t an issue here

I read with interest the Tuesday letter titled “Kelley fights to protect landowners.” I share your sentiment that an oil pipeline going through Jasper County land, especially farmland, would be a bit of a nuisance and that Rep. Kelley’s work should not go unnoticed.

However, Dakota Access is within their right to use the land via eminent domain. They are part of a larger, publicly traded company called Energy Transfer, which, in this case, is used as a government agency. Their website claims that the company will work with individual landowners and have promised to help restore the impacted land.

That’s why I propose that Mingo landowners and other Iowa landowners consider working closer with Dakota Access. Their needs will be taken care of as the pipeline, carrying domestic oil, is built. This pipeline will provide jobs, a larger GDP for the United States and, in turn, cheaper gas prices.

Lauren N. Griggs

Newton