August 26, 2010

Governor C.L. "Butch" Otter

Capitol Bldg,  Rm 223

P. O. Box 83720

Boise, ID. 83720

Dear Governor Otter:

Rep. Ringo and I sent you a letter outlining a number of concerns that our constituents and we have regarding the megaloads of oil refining equipment proposed to be shipped by Conoco and Exxon over Highway 12 through Montana to Canada.  We hope you have time in your busy schedule to answer our concerns outlined in our letter that we sent you on July 28th.

I was told by several ITD staff at the Moscow public information meeting on this topic that the total amount from the permits ($1,000 each) and other monies supplied by the oil companies will not cover ITD's administrative and technical costs on this project.  This means that the Idaho taxpayers of our great State are picking up the rest of the tab, and in essence this represents a tax increase which is not the greatest issue to use in an election campaign.

A number of constituents suggest that you use your Executive Order powers and call for public hearings in the affected areas.   This is not required under statute but I believe it would be a wise political decision on your part.

Sincerely

Rep. Tom Trail

cc:  Rep. Ringo