AURORA, Colo. (KDVR) — State regulators approved a proposal to drill oil wells less than a mile from the Aurora Reservoir, clearing the way for construction by SM Energy after years of opposition from nearby residents.
In a 3-2 vote on Monday, following a hearing that lasted more than six hours, the Colorado Energy and Carbon Management Commission authorized plans for 24 wells at the State Sunlight/Long Oil and Gas Development Plan, located just over half a mile from the reservoir.
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The commission determined that SM Energy, formerly known as Civitas, complied with state safety and regulatory requirements.
“It’s a balance as to protection of public health including emissions including electrification including pipelines including their trucks,” Commission Chair Jeff Robbins said. “At the end I find that the State/Sunlight Long location achieves the balance that we are told to look for.”…