Solobay to Host Marcellus Shale Hearing

Sen. Tim Solobay, D-Canonsburg, will host the Democratic Policy Committee Thursday, which will convene in North Strabane Township to hear about how Marcellus Shale issues have impacted local communities.

“Very important discussions are now taking place in Harrisburg, but Harrisburg is pretty far away and the media don’t have the time or space to cover it all,” Solobay said. “I’m trying to bring these discussions here to make sure our community leaders have a chance to weigh in.”

The policy committee, chaired by Sen. Lisa Boscola, of Lehigh County, will take testimony from experts and stakeholders on various issues to help develop solutions through new legislation.

The committee will hear local testimony about the impact of Marcellus Shale energy exploration on the local economy and environment at the hearing, which is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday in the

“We know that there will be thousands of jobs created,” Solobay said. “But we have to find the best way to make sure the local workforce is trained and ready to take them.  Job-training programs should be a priority, but proposed budget cuts threaten to undermine the progress.”

Scheduled speakers include:

Linda Bell, vice president, Washington Greene County Job Training 

Kenneth Broadbent, business manager, Steamfitters Local 449

Dr. Joseph Ianetti, director, Western Area Career and Technology Center

Alan Eichler, regional manager, oil and gas program with the state Department of Environmental Protection

Harlan G. Shober, Jr., chairman, Chartiers Township Board of  Supervisors

Gary Stokum, district manager, Washington County Conservation District

Stacey Brodak, director of corporate development, Chesapeake Energy

Scott Roy, vice president of government affairs, Range Resources

Editor's Note: Check back on Thursday for coverage of the hearing on Canon-McMillan Patch.