Coloradans are set to vote on a ballot initiative Election Day that would ban drilling within 2,500 feet — nearly a half-mile — from buildings and some green spaces. That’s up from a current limit of 500 feet.
Polling in Colorado conducted on behalf of the state’s oil industry shows the initiative is likely to pass with around 60% support. The results of the poll, not publicly released, were conveyed and confirmed to me by three separate officials in or supporting the state’s oil sector.
Both Colorado governor candidates blast oil-well setback initiative at industry gathering
US Rep. Jared Polis, a Boulder Democrat and incumbent in the 2nd Congressional District, is pictured in a filed photo. Wednesday he made his clearest statement about an anti-fracking ballot measure during a Colorado Oil and Gas Association summit.
Population along the Front Range just north of Denver has increased nearly 20% over the past decade, to more than 4.5 million people.
As of Sept. 4, oil and gas companies have kicked in $21 million to an issue committee fighting the initiative so far this year, according to campaign finance reports filed with the Colorado Secretary of State. There are practically no limits on how much money an issue committee can accept or spend. The committee can then use this money to collect signatures, buy media ads and air its views on the TV and radio.