Read between the lines on 112

I’ve worked in the oil and natural gas industry for five years; before that I knew nothing about oil and gas. If Proposition 112 was on the ballot back then, I probably would have voted yes. It sounds reasonable – until you read between the lines.

Proposition 112 would establish a 2,500-foot setback between new oil and natural gas development and occupied structures or other “vulnerable areas” – the most troubling phrase in the proposition. The definition of “vulnerable areas” includes things like dry creek beds, which is a channel formerly occupied by a stream, and a laundry list of other areas. Can you imagine how many dry creek beds exist in Colorado?

I read the full measure and did my research, and while cleverly disguised, it’s irrational. If Prop 112 passes the industry would soon cease to exist in Colorado, because these “vulnerable areas” mean 85 percent of nonfederal surface acreage would be off-limits. If this industry is banned, 147,800 jobs could be lost.

After working in oil and gas for five years, I believe in this industry and the people who make it possible.

I’m a wife. I’m a mother. I’m a Broncos fan. I’m a craft beer lover. I’m a fitness enthusiast. I’m not “big oil.” The industry is your neighbors, your friends, and your fellow Coloradans who love this state. I am Colorado oil and gas and I’m afraid for my livelihood. Please vote no on Proposition 112.

Rachel McNerneyParker

Proposition undermines economic opportunity for women

The sands are shifting in Colorado’s energy economy. Some Coloradans look at the oil and natural gas industry and think of offices full of older, white males. While that may have been true 30 years ago, female employment in oil and natural gas is projected to account for 185,000 of the industry’s total job opportunities through 2030. This is great news for both women and our communities. However, if Proposition 112 passes, this ever-increasing opportunity for women in the energy industry will be destroyed.

Education programs in Colorado will feel some of the worst pain should Proposition 112 pass. As county commissioners, we know that education equals opportunity. This is especially important with women. While women now earn the majority of college degrees, female participation in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields is particularly low. Involving more females in STEM at an early age, and keeping them engaged throughout their teens, is critical not only to fulfilling future workforce needs in Colorado, but also to setting women up with a lifelong career path.

Our mothers, our sisters, and our daughters deserve the chance to reach their greatest potential. For some, that means working directly in the oil and natural gas industry. For others, it may be a job supported by the industry such as law firms, engineering companies, and many others.

Let’s work together to ensure women will continue to have opportunities right here in Colorado. On behalf of myself and nine other women county commissioners in eight Colorado counties, I am asking you to please join us in voting NO on Proposition 112.

Debbie BellCommissioner, Fremont CountyCañon City

‘It is okay to leave boxes unchecked’

It is great to suggest voting down ballot, but there is next-to-nothing available about the races for surveyor or assessor, and I didn’t even see anyone running for dogcatcher. These kinds of races almost always garner votes based on party affiliation – true tribal voting behavior.

I do try, and encourage friends, to NOT vote on minor offices so that knowledgeable voters will have more sway. Same with judge retention. I leave all blank except the three that I know something about.

A ballot is not like a multiple choice exam. It is okay to leave boxes unchecked.

Tim HaleyColorado Springs

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