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LNG Letter about Proposed LNG Tanks in Chillum

Ms. Tracye Funn

Manager

Public Affairs

Washington Gas

4000 Forestville Road

Forestvile, Maryland 20747

Re: Proposed LNG Tanks in Chillum

Dear Ms. Funn:

I have reviewed the proposal by Washington Gas to construct a new Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) tank on property owned by Washington Gas in Chillum. I have also met with senior staff to evaluate this project. This includes A.J. Cornish and Michael Herman who met with you and your engineers recently to discuss the project. After reviewing all of the facts surrounding this issue, I am opposed to the proposed use of the Chillum site.

While your data suggests a low risk, the simple fact remains that a 50-fold increase in the amount of stored gas on that site, is of concern. Of the approximately 105 LNG tanks in the entire United States, very few have any residential development around them. I suspect that there are strong reasons why these tanks are not typically constructed or permitted near residential areas – let alone in areas where there is significant population density, such as the Chillum area. Although you suggest that the risk is low, any accident could have catastrophic consequences. This is of concern to not only me and other elected officials, but is of grave concern to all of the citizens of this county.

Furthermore, this entire area of the county is slated for significant redevelopment in and around the West Hyattsville Metro Station, which was opened after the previous storage tanks on that site were removed more than five years ago. Also, the proposed use is simply inconsistent with the long-term needs of the local community, which is slated for significant redevelopment. As such, the construction of this tank may well hamper the redevelopment efforts. The residents deserve quality redevelopment in that area, and anything that would hinder it would be problematic.

Finally, the community does not support this project. I believe their opposition is supported by reasonable conclusions about the negative effect of these tanks. Including the potential health and safety risks. We have attended a number of community meetings and are well familiar with the local concerns. I understand all the concerns they articulated in these meetings and elsewhere.

Given my concerns and those of the residents in that area, I cannot support the recently filed Special Exception modification to allow the construction of the LNG tank on the Chillum site. While I know it is a challenge for Washington Gas to find suitable locations in and around the metropolitan area for natural gas storage, the Chillum site is a poor site.

Sincerely,

JACK B. JOHNSON

County Executive