Pipeline opponents press Emigration Canyon and Salt Lake City leaders to take a stand

Opponents of HF Sinclair's proposed Westline Connect pipeline urged leaders in Emigration Canyon and Salt Lake City on Tuesday to state a clear position against the project before the company picks a final route, FOX 13 reported. ^[1]

At the Emigration Canyon Council meeting, Save Our Canyons submitted a petition with 1,281 signatures opposing the proposal as of Tuesday morning. "It can't be committees. It can't be studies. It has to be: We are saying no," one speaker told the council. The meeting included no vote and no formal council position. Salt Lake City residents also raised concerns about the project during public comment at the City Council meeting, according to FOX 13. ^[1]

The comments followed HF Sinclair's presentation to the Salt Lake City Council last week, when company representatives said the project would add resiliency to the region's transportation-fuel system and reduce price volatility when demand exceeds supply. Mayor Erin Mendenhall and the council afterward issued a joint statement saying they were "deeply concerned" and that, based on the information provided, "there are no compelling benefits — only risks — for Salt Lakers." City leaders asked the company for more information on potential effects on watersheds, groundwater recharge areas, streams, hospitals and neighborhoods. ^[1]

Emigration Canyon opponents have cited water, wildfire evacuation and construction near homes and private wells. HF Sinclair has said it is still evaluating options and has not made a final route decision, FOX 13 reported. ^[1]