JOHNSON CO., Ill.—On Tuesday, March 18 voters in Johnson County will be ask to vote Yes or No on the following:
“Shall the people’s right to local self-government be asserted by Johnson County to ban corporate fracking as a violation of their rights to health, safety, and a clean environment?”
Voters who want to ban fracking in the county should vote ‘Yes.’ Those who want fracking in Johnson County should vote ‘No.’ Obviously, this wording is confusing and many voters will either vote the opposite the way they think they are voting. Or, they won’t vote on the issue at all.
The ballot initiative was placed on March 18 ballot as a result of over 1000 signatures from registered voters. This was overwhelmingly more than the 374 needed to place a question on the ballot.
According to Stephen Nickels, a Johnson County resident, most people in the county seem to oppose fracking. ‘From what I’ve heard, the folks who have been going door-to-door canvassing the last few weeks say the majority of people they talk with don’t want fracking. But, many people are confused about which way to vote. When I was gathering signatures for the petition at least 75% of the people I talked with did not want fracking in Johnson County.’
Jim Waycuilis , another county voter, is concerned about the after effects of fracking. ‘It can devastate Southern Illinois communities, destroy tourism, damage roadways and contaminate water, air and soil. Who will pay for the cleanup? I say, ‘Vote Yes to ban fracking on March 18th!’
Voters are encouraged to call the Johnson County Clerk at 658-3611 if they are unsure about this ballot initiative.