Activists try a fourth time to ban fracking in Youngstown

YOUNGSTOWN — Those wanting city voters to approve a charter amendment to ban fracking in Youngstown are seeking to get on the ballot for the fourth time.

The Community Bill of Rights Committee expect to provide petitions with about 1,800 signatures at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday to the city council clerk, said Susie Beiersdorfer, a committee member. The three other ballot initiatives were rejected by city voters.

Meanwhile, supporters of a charter amendment that would base the number of wards in the city on population — which would reduce the number from seven to five based on current population — are stepping up efforts this week to get the needed signatures to get on the Nov. 4 ballot.

To be certified for the Nov. 4 ballot, proposed charter amendments need at least 1,126 signatures.

Those supporting the ward reduction — including Councilmen Mike Ray, D-4th, and Paul Drennen, D-5th — have collected about 600 signatures.

The group will have a “drive and sign” event from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday in front of the Erie Terminal Building, 112 W. Commerce St., and will be at the B&O Farmers Market from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the B&O Station Banquet Hall, 530 Mahoning Ave.

For the complete story, read Tuesday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com