City Council passes ban on fracking within city
To view our videos, you need to
enable JavaScript. Learn how.
install Adobe Flash 9 or above. Install now.
Then come back here and refresh the page.
ALBANY, N.Y. -- As the debate over hydrofracking continues across the state, the Albany Common Council has passed a ban on fracking within the city limits.
Opponents of the controversial natural gas drilling method have been pushing for a ban. Many said the chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing have the potential to contaminate the reservoir that supplies Albany's drinking water.
The ban was passed Monday with a 8-5 vote. One member abstained from the vote and one was absent.
Earlier this month, people against fracking rallied outside the state capitol. More than 50 businesses signed on to a coalition that called for a ban on fracking in Albany.
The Department of Environmental Conservation plans to hold several public comment meetings across the state until December 12th.