Canaveral Port Authority Rejects LNG Plant Proposal
The Canaveral Port Authority Board of Commissioners has unanimously voted to reject an unsolicited proposal for a liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant on Merritt Island. The decision came after a public workshop attended by approximately 100 residents, most of whom expressed strong opposition to the project. Commissioner Micah Loyd, who had previously promised to dismiss the proposal, led the motion during Wednesday’s meeting.
Community Concerns Drive Decision
During the public workshop held on Tuesday, community members voiced their concerns regarding the proposed LNG plant’s location, which is near residential areas and an elementary school. Merritt Island resident Philip Stasik, a retired airline captain, emphasized the potential dangers of placing such a facility close to homes. He highlighted the risks associated with possible accidents, stating, “If there were any kind of an issue… the first people to arrive at the scene of the accident will be children playing in their front yard, just 350 feet away. That’s completely unacceptable.”
The proposal was made by Chesapeake Utilities Corp. and BHE GT&S, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Energy, who sought to acquire or lease a 125-acre parcel owned by the port along the barge canal. This parcel, referred to as the “50-acre parcel,” is unique due to its waterfront access and wetlands, which would require mitigation if developed. Port authority officials noted that the land was recently appraised at $11.4 million, significantly increasing in value since its acquisition in 1991.
Commissioner Loyd’s motion to reject the proposal was seconded by Vice Chair Fritz VanVolkenburgh, who acknowledged the potential loss of over $11 million in revenue but stressed the importance of community well-being. He stated, “There would be stressors that could impact the local community, whether these stressors were psychological, health-related, or environmental.” VanVolkenburgh affirmed his commitment to preserving the property for future generations, stating, “I’m not ready to sell it… Not this year — in any way, whether it’s for LNG or any other purpose.”
Future of the Property
The Canaveral Port Authority’s decision reflects a growing trend among local governments to prioritize community safety and environmental concerns over potential economic gains. The board’s next meeting is scheduled for April 29, where further discussions about the future of the port’s properties may take place. As the community continues to engage in discussions about development, the rejection of the LNG proposal marks a significant moment in local governance, showcasing the power of public opinion in shaping policy decisions.
