In Grady County, construction of a new natural gas compression plant is the center of controversy. Houston-based LINN Energy is currently building the facility in the community of Tuttle.
The compressor plant, located off Highway 37 on Cemetery Road, is expected to process around 60 million cubic feet of natural gas per day while serving customers in Oklahoma’s highly prized SCOOP and STACK play areas. The area has minimal infrastructure in the immediate area which is the reason behind LINN Energy’s new construction.
Approximately 120 construction workers are currently employed at the construction site, providing an economic boost to local businesses serving the needs of the workforce. Despite the influx of workers, everyone in town is not happy with the independent oil and natural gas company’s efforts.
Local residents fear that the construction activities will create more harm than good. They are concerned about noise abatement, heavy traffic, road and bridge conditions and the repulsive odor emerging from the construction site.
Multiple parties agree that LINN Energy has been an outstanding corporate citizen, often willing to listen and act upon the apprehension of Tuttle residents. The company built a 20-foot tall berm around the 40-acre site to alleviate community concerns. On the horizon are plans by the company to plant trees around the perimeter in order to create a visual obstruction. LINN Energy also agreed to utilize mufflers on its compressor engines for noise abatement.
In May 2015, Governor Mary Fallin signed Senate Bill 809 which allows Oklahoma municipalities to enact local ordinances designed to regulate traffic, noise and odors related to oil and gas operations. The legislation also placed exclusive jurisdiction on the regulation of oil and gas operations with the Oklahoma Corporation Commission, effectively prohibiting the munis from banning operations within city limits.
With growth, comes change. Tuttle municipal leaders also voice concern that LINN Energy’s latest development exerts pressure on the city. Much of the problem stems from the city’s lack of authority and control over the new plant.
“I tell the residents the city of Tuttle cannot tell an oil and gas company where to drill, so it’s best to work with the company and work within the existing statutes,” said Tim Young, Tuttle City Manager. “That leaves us with little ability to regulate the industry.”
According to city officials, phase one of the plant construction is scheduled for completion by the end of 2016.
