Oct 4, 2014 2 min read

It is of huge importance to the citizens of Washington County and other municipalities in Pennsylvania that they understand the implications of Democratic gubernatorial candidate Tom Wolf’s intentions regarding Marcellus Shale gas well taxes.

The wells bring revenue to communities via impact fees. Resurfaced roads and new equipment were not affordable until the impact fees. West Pike Run Township, for example, received $100,000 in impact fees this year.

Wolf plans to either add a severance tax on top of the impact fees or eliminate the impact fees and replace it with a severance tax. If the latter happens, the taxes collected from the gas companies will not come to the affected communities. Instead, they will go into the general fund. The revenue will, in most cases, go to Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. Impact fees only go to municipalities affected by the gas well activity to help pay for costs arising from drilling.

In addition, should Wolf proceed with his plans for a severance tax, several energy companies have announced that they will pull out of Pennsylvania due to their inability to make a profit. I think we all know what that could mean for employment in the area.

Having experience in the field and in municipal government, I recommend all voters strongly consider the implications of the governor’s election. In this case, everyone should put aside political affiliations and vote for what is best for the township and county.

A severance tax will stop all progress in West Pike Run Township and other municipalities.

Laura Hough

West Pike Run Township