Concerns about deep well drilling and the rights of Calhoun citizens, local
gas producers and royalty owners were discussed at last evenings meeting
of the Calhoun Commission. The issue centers on complicated
arrangements, tax policies and laws that could exempt deep well producers from
taxation.
County Assessor Jason Nettles said the taxation methods are complicated
and multi-layered, creating a problem that has more questions than answers.
Members of the Calhoun Commission, President Bob Weaver, Larry
McCallister and David Barr, passed a resolution proposed by Weaver, stating
their concerns regarding Calhoun residents getting a fair shake. Weaver has
suggested other counties with deep well interests follow suit.
A Resolution By The Commission Of The County Of
Calhoun:
TO PROTECT THE RIGHTS AND PRIVILEGES OF OUR
CITIZENS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF DEEP WELL
DRILLING
Whereas, we the members of the Calhoun County
Commission, do hereby make record of our concerns and
issues surrounding the taxation of deep well drilling in the
County of Calhoun and the State of West Virginia.
Whereas, we the members of the Calhoun County
Commission, are aware of an historical record of natural
resources being removed from our boundaries, often without
reasonable and fair compensation to royalty holders, land
owners, small oil and gas producers and citizens.
Whereas, we the members of the Calhoun County
Commission, are aware of tax breaks, laws and special
considerations given the purveyors of our natural resources,
often depriving our citizens of rightful and taxable income
which would maintain or improve the quality of life of those
residing within the boundaries of Calhoun County.
Whereas, we the members of the Calhoun County
Commission, do hereby give notice of our intent to stand for
the rights of our citizens in relation to concessions and deals
being agreed upon by the West Virginia State Tax Department,
other departments of government and members of the West
Virginia Legislature, who may seek to favor those vested
interests.
Whereas, we call upon all counties whose government has
such concern, along with the Boards of Education of those
counties, and all concerned citizens of those counties, to join
with us in developing and maintaining a consortium who will
monitor and advocate for fairness in taxation on the production
of deep well drilling within our boundaries.
Whereas, we the members of the Calhoun County
Commission, declare that such discussions and decisions be
passed before them before any adoption by the branches of
government of the State of West Virginia.
Whereas, we the members of the Calhoun County
Commission, call upon the companies and conglomerates who
seek to draw resources from our lands, to consider our rights
and needs, and work cooperatively with us in the development
of deep well drilling.
