Natural gas drilling again allowed in Middlesex Township

MIDDLESEX TOWNSHIP, Pa. — After having been stalled for 10 months, natural gas drilling near Mars Area School District property can start up again, leaders in Middlesex Township have voted.

Fracking in the area located about one-half mile from Mars Area School District property was stopped after people challenged a zoning ordinance. 
However, zoning board members on Wednesday shot down attempts to reverse the ordinance, which attorneys said leaves the community wide open to drilling.

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Crystal Yost and dozens of other area residents fear the fracking industry could overrun their community.

"I fear for the health and safety of our kids in this community today and the next generation," said Yost. "We feel like we can't get a fair hearing in this community."

Those who have fought to keep natural gas drilling out of the township say the people behind the decision have ties to the industry.

"I think it's obvious when you have an economic interest in the outcome, that's going to raise a reasonable question in people's minds," said attorney Jordan Yeager.

Rex Energy representatives said work will soon pick up again. An appeal is expected.

WPXI