To the Editor:

A few years ago every county, city, township and zoning board could deny drilling in their area of control. As a result most landowners could not lease for drilling on their property. The Ohio legislation did not see this as a good thing for Ohio and the nation. Complete control of drilling activity was given to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

This closed the front door, now the anti-drillers are at the back door with misinformation and scare tactics, almost none proven, trying to get the people to fear "fracking." However scientists report fracking to be nearly 100 percent problem free. If we could get God to certify that "fracking" is not a problem, they would still not want drilling. The concern would then be about roadways, traffic and salt spills (never mind we use extreme amounts of salt on roads). Spills are rare and clean up is mandated.

Now our anti-drilling friends are petitioning local governments to do anything they can think of to impede the energy recovery efforts. They seem unconcerned that we're buying nearly 50 percent of our oil from the Mideast countries whose people consider us infidels and like our money, but not us.

Environmental concerns may take many forms. Shipping oil in tankers, never creates problems, well, not so fast, remember the Exxon Valdez? There have been others. It is costing us the equivalent of $5 per gallon of gasoline we use to keep the shipping lanes open, so we can buy it for $3 to $4 per gallon.

Remember the last two Iraq wars? They were about oil. We lost talent, treasure and lives. Now Iran seems to be on the verge of acquiring a nuclear weapon, still unconcerned?

Medina County and the State of Ohio is concerned about jobs. A "job incubator" has been established to help create job opportunities in our area. It would seem the oil and gas drilling industry doesn't count, but it does count, for a lot. During the gold rush days, the hardware stores, bars and hotels (using polite terms), made more money than the minors, "a rising tide lifts all boats." Oil and gas suppliers are getting much busier. That means hiring people. Part time and full time jobs, many well paid! Add to this the royalty income, most of which will be spent in our local economy. By the way, have you noticed that your per unit gas charges have gone down about 25 percent? It is called supply and demand!! Lets stop buying Mideast oil! Get fracking Ohio!

Bill Bramley

Sharon Township