During a recent Brookings County government meeting, a concerned resident raised alarms about the proposed CO2 pipeline project, emphasizing potential safety risks and a lack of local benefits. The resident, who has been researching the pipeline for two years, expressed frustration over the absence of communication from county commissioners and highlighted the community's shock regarding the pipeline's planned route through Aurora.

The resident detailed their concerns about the pipeline's safety, citing expert opinions that pipelines are prone to leaks due to various factors, including corrosion and accidental damage. They referenced a past incident in Sartia, Mississippi, where a pipeline leak resulted in multiple hospitalizations, underscoring the serious consequences of such incidents. The resident urged the county commissioners to implement protective measures, such as setbacks, to safeguard local residents from potential hazards associated with the pipeline.

In response to the resident's testimony, the commissioners proceeded with routine agenda items, including the approval of minutes and claims, without addressing the pipeline concerns raised. The meeting highlighted a growing tension between community safety and industrial development, as residents seek assurance from their elected officials regarding the management of potential risks associated with the pipeline project.