Sioux City Journal

Lives can't be bought

Posted: Saturday, May 31, 2008

AKRON, Iowa -- As I was reading the Opinion section of the Sunday, May 25, Journal, I was thoroughly upset. The Journal's headline stated that the economic benefits outweigh concerns in link with its editorial support for Hyperion. That statement is very sick and very wrong. I can't believe you think someone's health and livelihood can be bought off. In fact, that's what the "yes" side is obsessed with - money.

I am a firm believer that you cannot put a price tag on a life. Obviously some people can be bought off to believe such things - they are the people that have optioned their land to Hyperion as well as those working for them. I really don't know how you can deem Hyperion as a reputable source of information. They haven't had any kind of expert in oil refining speak at any public meeting.

To all the people that are undecided on how they will vote, I urge you to go to the Spink Cafe today and listen to environmental experts speak on this issue. I also urge those of you who are considering a "yes" vote to come and listen. It just might change your mind.

Think of all the lives that could be lost to this "economic benefit" before you mark your ballot. Lives can't be bought. Vote "no" on June 3. -- Lisa Welch (resident of South Dakota side of Akron)

Story Comments

wasnt bought wrote on Jun 2, 2008 11:30 AM:

" Dakota Cowboy--I would deem Lisa as a reliable source of information. She has been researching this topic and I believe she knows her facts. By the way--Hyperion is the only side that is buying votes. Maybe you'd feel differently about this situation if you'd do some research too instead of listening strictly to what hyperion tells you. VOTE NO! "

drsmoke wrote on Jun 2, 2008 11:26 AM:

" Hey "another guy"--don't ridicule Lisa for her smoking...she has the choice whether or not to do that. Do you ever take health advice from doctors? Guess what--some doctors smoke. You're turning this into another issue that's better left alone until this refinery issue is over. "

another guy wrote on Jun 1, 2008 7:03 PM:

" In the middle, You loose all credability with your anger. I'm sure you are doing alot to sway people to your side. Sounds like you may be a bit frustrated. Take a chill pill. And if Lisa is so concerned about her health maybe she should put the smokes down. Then she can lecture me about her health. "

AnnieO wrote on Jun 1, 2008 1:11 PM:

" Joe, who determines fair market value,you,your neighor or some outsider? Fair Market value is based on like sales in the neighborhood, numbers of properties for sale, etc. No one wants to willingly live next to a refinery nor will they pay half a million to live next to a refinery. Homes go dirt cheap, other homes in the area will lose their value just because of their location. As values go so do tax revenues. "

some guy wrote on May 31, 2008 4:49 PM:

" In the Middle, I also doubt that Jesus would approve of someone wishing others to burn in hell "