WEBVTT

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<v ->Oh, causing trouble.</v>

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<v ->Yeah.</v>

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<v ->All right. Are we ready?</v>

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<v ->We're ready.</v>
<v ->All right, Callie.</v>

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Let's do it.

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<v Callie>Good morning.</v>

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This is Callie Farrar,
Commission Secretary.

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I'll be serving as the meeting moderator

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for today's conference.

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Just a few reminders.

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When it is your time to speak,

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you will be transferred
over from guest to panelists.

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While transferring, the speaker
and audience may experience

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a moment of delay, this is normal.

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Speakers will also
need to begin their video

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and remove themselves from mute

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for the video and audio to work.

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Commission does reserve
the right to remove any audio

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or video sharing
capabilities from any person

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if needed at any time.

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Chairman Craddick, when are
ready to begin when you are.

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Thank you, and good morning, Callie.

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This is Christi Craddick.

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This meeting of the Railroad
Commission of Texas

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will come to order to consider matters

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which have been duly posted
with the Secretary of State

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for June 8th, 2021.

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Under our public participation policy,

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anyone desiring to offer
public testimony on any items

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that are not noticed on today's agenda

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was required to register in advance.

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I think we have one person
who's registered in advance.

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The Commission will consider
the items on the agenda

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as posted on the agenda,

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and, Callie, we're on number one.

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Good morning Christina. I
already see you ready to go.

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<v Callie>(laughs) Yes. Thank you.</v>

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Christina Poole is
going to be presenting.

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Christina, we are ready when you are.

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<v ->Good morning, chairman
and Commissioners.</v>

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For the record, my
name is Christina Poole

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and I'm with the Oversight
and Safety Division.

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The agenda item before
you is case number 5923,

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the application of Atmos
Energy West Texas division,

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for test year of 2020 annual
interim rate adjustment

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for the West Texas
Triangle distribution system.

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This is the first
interim rate adjustment

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since the company's last
rate case, GUD number 10900.

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This adjustment represents
an incremental rate requirement

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of approximately $416,183,

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which will be recovered
from the customers

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under the proposed rate adjustment.

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The recommended adjustment
does not include recovery

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of any costs associated
with the winter weather event

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of February, 2021.

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Atmos has also stated
its intention by letter

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to defer the effective date of
the proposed IRA rate change

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until September 1st in
recognizing the ongoing

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economic effects of
the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Staff recommends approval
of the interim rate adjustment.

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I'm available for questions.

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<v ->Thank you. Are
there any questions?</v>

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All right. I move we approve
the examiner's recommendation.

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Is there a second?

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<v ->Second.</v>

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<v ->Second by
Commissioner Christian.</v>

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All those in favor say aye.

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<v ->Aye.</v>
<v ->Aye.</v>

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Motion passes, that item's approved.

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Thank you, Christina.

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Callie, number two.

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<v Callie>Yes. Thank you.</v>

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Frank Tomicek will be
presenting agenda item two.

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Frank we are ready when you are.

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<v ->Thank you, Callie.</v>

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Madam Chairman,
Commissioners, good morning.

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I'm Frank Tomicek with the
Oversight and Safety Division.

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This morning's next agenda
item is case number 5924,

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application made by
CenterPoint Energy Entex,

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for a test year 2020 annual
interim rate adjustment

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for the unincorporated
areas and municipalities

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with ceded jurisdiction

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in its South Texas
division service area.

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This is the third
interim rate adjustment

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since the company's last rate
case in GUD number 10669,

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which set base interim
rate adjustment component.

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Under these factors,

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the company's identified
an annual test year

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incremental rate requirement
of approximately $4,602,635,

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of which $1,548,235 will be recovered

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from the environments in
ceded jurisdictional customers

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on proposed rate adjustment.

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This recommended rate
adjustment does not include

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recovery of any costs associated

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with the winter weather
event of February 2021.

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Staff's review of
the filing has found it

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to be compliant with the
provisions of the group statutes,

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and staff is recommending approval.

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I can address any
questions at this time.

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<v Christi>Thank you. Are
there any questions?</v>

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All right, I move we approve
the examiners recommendation.

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Is there a second?

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<v ->Second.</v>

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<v ->Second by Commissioner Wright.</v>

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All in favor say aye.
<v ->Aye.</v>

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Motion passes. That item's
approved. Thank you, Frank.

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Let's see, Callie, we've
got Sarah's coming up

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for several, correct?

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<v Callie>Yes, that is
correct. Thank you.</v>

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Sarah Montoya-Foglesong
will be presenting agenda items

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three, four, and six.

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Sarah, we are ready when you are.

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<v ->Thank you, Callie.</v>

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Good morning, chairman
and Commissioners.

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For the record, my name is
Sarah Montoya-Foglesong,

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and I'm representing the
market oversight section

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of the oversight and safety division.

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Item number three is case number 5813,

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the application of Texas
Gas Service Company

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for test year 2020 annual
interim rate adjustment

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for the Central Gulf service area.

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This case represents the
first interim rate adjustment

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since the company's most recent
rate case, GUD number 10928.

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This adjustment represents
an incremental increase

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of $10,698,852, of which
$834,130 is recoverable

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from customers subject
to the order in this case.

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The recommended
adjustment does not include

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recovery of any costs associated

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with the winter weather
event of February, 2021.

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Staff recommends approval
of the interim rate adjustment

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as revised, and I'm available
to answer any questions.

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<v ->Good, there any questions?
(phone rings)</v>

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All right, I move we approve
the examiner's recommendation.

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Is there a second?

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<v ->Second.</v>

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<v ->Second by
Commissioner Christian.</v>

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All in favor say aye.

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<v ->Aye.</v>
<v ->Aye.</v>

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<v ->Motion passes,
that item's approved.</v>

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(phone ringing)
Number four.

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<v ->Thank you. Item number
four is case number 5925.</v>

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The application filed by
CenterPoint Energy Entex

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for test year 2020 annual
interim rate adjustment

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for the unincorporated
areas of the Houston division

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and cities that have ceded jurisdiction

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to the Railroad Commission of Texas.

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This case represents the
fourth interim rate adjustment

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since the company's most recent
rate case, GUD number 10567.

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This adjustment represents
an incremental increase

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of $13,844,809, of which
$7,059,193 is recoverable

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from customers subject
to the order in this case.

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The recommended
adjustment does not include

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recovery of any costs associated

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with the winter weather event of 2021,

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and staff recommends approval

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of this interim rate adjustment,

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and I'm still available
for any questions.

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<v ->Thank you. Are
there any questions?</v>

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All right, I move we approve
the examiner's recommendation.

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Is there a second?

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<v ->Second.</v>

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<v ->Second by Commissioner Wright.</v>

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All in favor say aye.

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<v ->Aye.</v>
<v ->Aye. Motion passes.</v>

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That item's approved,

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and we're passing
number five, is that correct?

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<v Callie>Yes, that is correct.</v>

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Staff is suggesting
we pass on item five.

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<v ->Okay, so number six, please.</v>

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<v ->Thank you, item number
six is case number 5926,</v>

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another application filed by
CenterPoint Energy Entex.

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This is for the test year 2020

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annual interim rate adjustment

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for the unincorporated areas
of the Texas Coast division

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and the cities that
have ceded jurisdiction

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to the Railroad Commission of Texas.

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This case represents the
fourth interim rate adjustment

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since the company's most recent
rate case, GUD number 10567.

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This adjustment represents
an incremental increase

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of $3,718,642, of which
$1,359,300 is recoverable

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from customers subject
to the order in this case.

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The recommended adjustment
does not include recovery

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of any costs associated
with the winter weather event

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of February, 2021.

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Staff recommends approval
of this interim rate adjustment,

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and still I'm available if
you have any questions.

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<v Christi>Thank you. Are
there any questions?</v>

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All right, I move we approve
the examiner's recommendation.

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Is there a second?

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<v ->Second.</v>

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<v ->Second by
Commissioner Christian.</v>

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All those in favor say aye.

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<v ->Aye.</v>
<v ->Aye. Motion passes.</v>

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That item's approved. Thank you, Sarah.

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All right.
<v ->Thank you.</v>

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<v ->Callie, we've got
seven and eight.</v>

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Same person, right?
<v ->Yes. Yes, same person.</v>

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Thank you.

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Tariq Usman will be presenting

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agenda item seven and eight.

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Tariq, we are ready when you are.

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And it looks like we're waiting

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just a little bit for him to come over.

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Good morning Tariq. How are you today?

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<v ->Good morning.
How are you Callie?</v>

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<v ->Good. We are
ready when you are.</v>

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<v ->Good morning chairman
and Commissioners.</v>

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For the record, my name is Tariq Usman.

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I am representing the
market oversight section

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of the Oversight and Safety Division.

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The agenda item number
seven is case number 5922,

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the application of Atmos
Energy West Texas division,

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for the test year 2020
annual interim rate adjustment

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for the unincorporated of
the West Texas division.

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This case is the third
interim rate adjustment

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the company has filed
for the West Texas division

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since a final order was
issued in the most recent

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statement of intent Gas
Utility Docketed number 10743.

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This adjustment represent
an incremental increase

00:09:11.700 --> 00:09:16.700
of $15,065,235, of which
$1,266,773 is recoverable

00:09:20.596 --> 00:09:24.260
from customers subject
to the order of this docket.

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The recommended adjustment
does not include recovery

00:09:27.025 --> 00:09:29.409
of any costs associated
with the winter weather event

00:09:29.409 --> 00:09:31.557
of February, 2021.

00:09:31.557 --> 00:09:34.020
I recommend approval of
the interim rate adjustment.

00:09:34.020 --> 00:09:36.854
I am available to answer any questions.

00:09:36.854 --> 00:09:38.638
<v Christi>Thank you. Are
there any questions?</v>

00:09:38.638 --> 00:09:39.534
<v ->No.</v>
<v ->All right.</v>

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I move we approve the
examiner's recommendation.

00:09:41.883 --> 00:09:43.321
Is there a second?

00:09:43.321 --> 00:09:44.500
<v ->Second.</v>
<v ->Second by</v>

00:09:44.500 --> 00:09:45.630
Commissioner Wright.

00:09:45.630 --> 00:09:47.391
All in favor say aye.

00:09:47.391 --> 00:09:48.224
<v ->Aye.</v>
<v ->Aye.</v>

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<v ->Aye. Motion passes.
That item's approved.</v>

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Tariq, number eight, please.

00:09:52.525 --> 00:09:55.049
<v ->Item number eight
is case number 5927.</v>

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The application of
CenterPoint Energy Entex

00:09:57.796 --> 00:10:00.846
for test year 2020 annual
interim rate adjustment

00:10:00.846 --> 00:10:02.296
for the unincorporated areas

00:10:02.296 --> 00:10:04.433
of the Beaumont East Texas division

00:10:04.433 --> 00:10:06.572
and cities that have ceded jurisdiction

00:10:06.572 --> 00:10:08.420
to the Railroad Commission of Texas.

00:10:08.420 --> 00:10:10.363
This case is the first
interim rate adjustment

00:10:10.363 --> 00:10:13.703
the company has filed for the
Beaumont East Texas division

00:10:13.703 --> 00:10:16.095
since the final order was
issued in the most recent

00:10:16.095 --> 00:10:20.780
statement of intent, Gas
Utilities Docket number 10920.

00:10:20.780 --> 00:10:22.238
At the request of the company,

00:10:22.238 --> 00:10:26.867
the Commission consolidated
case number 6541 and 6657,

00:10:26.867 --> 00:10:29.313
both of which were
appeals of municipal denials

00:10:29.313 --> 00:10:31.836
of the interim rate adjustment.

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This adjustment represent a system-wide

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incremental increase of $5,893,107,

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of which $2,070,618 is
recoverable from customers

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subject to the order of this docket.

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The recommended adjustment
does not include recovery

00:10:49.166 --> 00:10:52.034
of any costs associated
with the winter weather event

00:10:52.034 --> 00:10:53.795
of February, 2021.

00:10:53.795 --> 00:10:56.196
I recommend approval of
the interim rate adjustment.

00:10:56.196 --> 00:10:58.874
I'm available to answer any questions.

00:10:58.874 --> 00:11:00.377
<v Christi>Thank you. Are
there any questions?</v>

00:11:00.377 --> 00:11:01.317
<v ->No.</v>
<v ->All right.</v>

00:11:01.317 --> 00:11:03.320
I move we approve the
examiner's recommendation.

00:11:03.320 --> 00:11:05.048
Is there a second?

00:11:05.048 --> 00:11:05.881
<v ->Second.</v>

00:11:05.881 --> 00:11:07.470
<v ->Second by
Commissioner Christian.</v>

00:11:07.470 --> 00:11:09.060
All those in favor say aye.

00:11:09.060 --> 00:11:10.060
<v ->Aye.</v>

00:11:10.060 --> 00:11:13.400
<v ->Aye. Motion passes. That
item's approved. Thank you Tariq.</v>

00:11:13.400 --> 00:11:14.330
<v ->Thank you.</v>
<v ->All right, Callie,</v>

00:11:14.330 --> 00:11:17.970
items nine and 10,
we got Veronica, I think.

00:11:17.970 --> 00:11:18.810
<v Callie>Yes, thank you.</v>

00:11:18.810 --> 00:11:21.260
Veronica Ruberto will be presenting

00:11:21.260 --> 00:11:23.483
agenda items nine and 10.

00:11:24.480 --> 00:11:27.763
Veronica, we are ready when you are.

00:11:28.937 --> 00:11:31.237
It looks like we're
waiting just a little bit.

00:11:32.950 --> 00:11:35.250
That delay must be quite
a delay today. (laughs)

00:11:35.250 --> 00:11:37.390
Good morning, Veronica. How are you?

00:11:37.390 --> 00:11:39.050
<v ->Good morning.
Thank you, Callie.</v>

00:11:39.050 --> 00:11:40.990
Good morning chairman, Commissioners.

00:11:40.990 --> 00:11:42.660
For the record, Veronica Ruberto,

00:11:42.660 --> 00:11:45.720
Administrative Law Judge
with the Hearings division.

00:11:45.720 --> 00:11:47.730
Item number nine is the application

00:11:47.730 --> 00:11:50.150
by San Miguel Electric Cooperative, Inc.

00:11:50.150 --> 00:11:54.220
requesting of case one
release of reclamation obligations

00:11:54.220 --> 00:11:59.220
on 146.1 acres within
San Miguel Lignite Mine,

00:11:59.350 --> 00:12:04.350
permit number 11H located in
McMullen and Atascosa counties.

00:12:04.770 --> 00:12:06.360
The approved postmining land use

00:12:06.360 --> 00:12:08.746
within the subject area is pasture land.

00:12:08.746 --> 00:12:11.430
The permit area is bonded based upon

00:12:11.430 --> 00:12:13.360
the worst case bond method,

00:12:13.360 --> 00:12:15.867
so there is no eligible bond reduction

00:12:15.867 --> 00:12:18.620
until phase three release is approved.

00:12:18.620 --> 00:12:20.910
Evidence in the record
supports that San Miguel

00:12:20.910 --> 00:12:22.410
has satisfied all requirements

00:12:22.410 --> 00:12:25.360
for phase one release
of the subject area.

00:12:25.360 --> 00:12:27.190
After notice, no comments or requests

00:12:27.190 --> 00:12:28.730
for a hearing were received.

00:12:28.730 --> 00:12:31.950
San Miguel and staff are the
only parties to the proceeding.

00:12:31.950 --> 00:12:33.510
No exceptions were filed,

00:12:33.510 --> 00:12:36.950
no changes to the current
bond are requested in this docket.

00:12:36.950 --> 00:12:39.750
It is recommended that the
requests for phase one release

00:12:39.750 --> 00:12:41.730
of reclamation obligations be approved

00:12:41.730 --> 00:12:45.150
and that the bond amount
not be reduced at this time.

00:12:45.150 --> 00:12:47.440
I'm available for questions.

00:12:47.440 --> 00:12:49.950
<v ->Thank you. Are
there any questions?</v>

00:12:49.950 --> 00:12:52.260
Then I move we approve the
examiner's recommendation.

00:12:52.260 --> 00:12:53.659
Is there a second?

00:12:53.659 --> 00:12:54.531
<v ->Second.</v>

00:12:54.531 --> 00:12:56.250
<v ->Second by Commissioner Wright.</v>

00:12:56.250 --> 00:12:57.792
All in favor say aye.

00:12:57.792 --> 00:12:58.625
<v ->Aye.</v>

00:12:58.625 --> 00:13:01.120
<v ->Aye. Motion passes.
That item's approved.</v>

00:13:01.120 --> 00:13:03.290
Veronica, number 10, please.

00:13:03.290 --> 00:13:07.240
<v ->Item number 10 is the
application by Farco Mining, Inc.</v>

00:13:07.240 --> 00:13:10.701
requesting a phase three
release of reclamation obligations

00:13:10.701 --> 00:13:15.694
on 531.9 acres within the Trevino Mine,

00:13:15.694 --> 00:13:19.990
permit number 45D,
located in Webb county.

00:13:19.990 --> 00:13:23.029
Farco is also requesting
final closure of the permit

00:13:23.029 --> 00:13:26.210
given the subject acreage
represents all the acres

00:13:26.210 --> 00:13:27.780
that remain under bond.

00:13:27.780 --> 00:13:31.070
The approved postmining
land use within the release area

00:13:31.070 --> 00:13:34.190
is pasture land and
developed water resources.

00:13:34.190 --> 00:13:36.210
Evidence in the record
supports that the Farco

00:13:36.210 --> 00:13:38.040
has satisfied all requirements

00:13:38.040 --> 00:13:40.033
for a full release of the subject area.

00:13:41.090 --> 00:13:42.740
After notice, no comments or requests

00:13:42.740 --> 00:13:43.770
for a hearing were received.

00:13:43.770 --> 00:13:46.710
Farco and staff are the only
parties to the proceedings.

00:13:46.710 --> 00:13:49.293
No exceptions were
filed to the proposed order.

00:13:50.520 --> 00:13:52.380
Evidence supports that the permit area

00:13:52.380 --> 00:13:53.880
has been fully reclaimed.

00:13:53.880 --> 00:13:56.133
It is recommended that
the request for release

00:13:56.133 --> 00:13:58.750
for the reclamation
obligations for the subject area

00:13:58.750 --> 00:14:01.630
be approved, the permit be terminated,

00:14:01.630 --> 00:14:05.040
and that Farco's surety bond
be released in its entirety.

00:14:05.040 --> 00:14:07.400
I'm available for questions.

00:14:07.400 --> 00:14:09.690
<v Callie>Commissioners we
also have Cameron Twing</v>

00:14:09.690 --> 00:14:13.050
representing applicant
Farco Mining Incorporated,

00:14:13.050 --> 00:14:15.371
registered and available for questions.

00:14:15.371 --> 00:14:16.490
<v ->Thank you, Callie.</v>

00:14:16.490 --> 00:14:19.323
Are there any questions
of the witness or Veronica?

00:14:20.170 --> 00:14:22.120
It's interesting to see
this all the way through,

00:14:22.120 --> 00:14:24.930
so get to close another
mine in this state.

00:14:24.930 --> 00:14:28.950
All right, I move we approve
the examiner's recommendation.

00:14:28.950 --> 00:14:30.147
Is there a second?

00:14:31.135 --> 00:14:31.968
<v ->Second.</v>

00:14:31.968 --> 00:14:33.430
<v ->Second by
Commissioner Christian.</v>

00:14:33.430 --> 00:14:35.096
All in favor say aye.

00:14:35.096 --> 00:14:37.160
<v ->Aye.</v>
<v ->Aye. Motion passes.</v>

00:14:37.160 --> 00:14:39.560
That item's approved.
Thank you, Veronica.

00:14:39.560 --> 00:14:41.210
<v ->All right, Callie, if
you'll call up presenter</v>

00:14:41.210 --> 00:14:42.933
for 11 through 30,

00:14:43.810 --> 00:14:44.740
<v Callie>Yes, thank you.</v>

00:14:44.740 --> 00:14:47.240
Kristi Reeve will be
presenting agenda items

00:14:47.240 --> 00:14:49.997
11 through 30, and she
will also be continuing

00:14:49.997 --> 00:14:51.890
with the item 31.

00:14:51.890 --> 00:14:53.713
Kristi, we are ready when you are.

00:14:54.850 --> 00:14:56.500
<v ->Good morning chairman
and Commissioners.</v>

00:14:56.500 --> 00:14:57.870
For the record, Kristi Reeve,

00:14:57.870 --> 00:15:00.700
Administrative Law Judge
with the Hearings division.

00:15:00.700 --> 00:15:04.310
I'll be presenting items
number 11 through 31.

00:15:04.310 --> 00:15:08.030
Item numbers 11 through
30 will be presented together

00:15:08.030 --> 00:15:10.910
as they have common parties and facts.

00:15:10.910 --> 00:15:13.360
These items are the
result of complaints filed by

00:15:13.360 --> 00:15:17.384
Texas Gulf Coast alleging
Promise Energy Operations, LLC

00:15:17.384 --> 00:15:19.250
does not have a good faith claim

00:15:19.250 --> 00:15:21.920
to operate the subject leases and wells.

00:15:21.920 --> 00:15:24.420
Texas Gulf Coast
provided evidence in support

00:15:24.420 --> 00:15:27.180
of its contention in the
form of the unit agreement

00:15:27.180 --> 00:15:29.980
relied upon by Promise
and a lack of production

00:15:29.980 --> 00:15:31.570
from the wells on the unit,

00:15:31.570 --> 00:15:34.030
such that the agreement has expired.

00:15:34.030 --> 00:15:36.700
Promise acknowledges
the lack of production,

00:15:36.700 --> 00:15:39.172
but argued force
majeure clause prevented

00:15:39.172 --> 00:15:41.580
the unit agreement from expiring.

00:15:41.580 --> 00:15:43.830
Promise failed to
provide any legal basis

00:15:43.830 --> 00:15:45.770
in support of this argument.

00:15:45.770 --> 00:15:47.390
It is recommended the Commission find

00:15:47.390 --> 00:15:51.400
Promise failed to provide a
reasonably satisfactory showing

00:15:51.400 --> 00:15:54.100
of a good faith claim
to operate the wells

00:15:54.100 --> 00:15:55.960
and order the wells to be
plugged and abandoned

00:15:55.960 --> 00:15:58.360
in accordance with Statewide rule 14,

00:15:58.360 --> 00:16:00.930
and the subject leases
brought into compliance

00:16:00.930 --> 00:16:02.030
with Commission rules.

00:16:02.030 --> 00:16:05.850
No exceptions were filed.
I'm available for questions.

00:16:05.850 --> 00:16:07.852
<v Callie>Commissioners,
we also have Rob Hargrove</v>

00:16:07.852 --> 00:16:09.680
representing Texas Gulf,

00:16:09.680 --> 00:16:12.152
registered and available for questions.

00:16:12.152 --> 00:16:12.985
<v ->Thank you.</v>

00:16:12.985 --> 00:16:17.563
Are there any questions
of Mr. Hargrove or Kristi?

00:16:18.980 --> 00:16:22.180
All right, I move we approve
the examiner's recommendation

00:16:22.180 --> 00:16:24.500
for items 11 through 30.

00:16:24.500 --> 00:16:25.849
Is there a second?

00:16:25.849 --> 00:16:26.790
<v ->Second.</v>

00:16:26.790 --> 00:16:28.170
<v ->Second by Commissioner Wright.</v>

00:16:28.170 --> 00:16:29.919
All in favor say aye.

00:16:29.919 --> 00:16:32.140
<v ->Aye.</v>
<v ->Aye. Motion passes.</v>

00:16:32.140 --> 00:16:33.970
Those items are approved.

00:16:33.970 --> 00:16:35.803
Kristi number 31, please.

00:16:36.920 --> 00:16:39.262
<v ->Number 31 is a
motion for rehearing.</v>

00:16:39.262 --> 00:16:42.871
On April 13th, 2021, the
Commission entered an order

00:16:42.871 --> 00:16:45.620
approving Blackhorn's
application for renewal

00:16:45.620 --> 00:16:48.610
of its commercial permit
to operate an oil and gas

00:16:48.610 --> 00:16:50.452
waste stationery treatment facility

00:16:50.452 --> 00:16:53.170
in accordance with Statewide rule eight.

00:16:53.170 --> 00:16:57.220
On May 10th, 2021 protestants
Calvert and Tara Jones

00:16:57.220 --> 00:16:59.860
filed a timely motion for rehearing.

00:16:59.860 --> 00:17:03.576
On May 20th, 2021, Blackhorn
filed a timely response

00:17:03.576 --> 00:17:06.030
in opposition to the motion.

00:17:06.030 --> 00:17:08.340
Based on the evidence
developed in the record,

00:17:08.340 --> 00:17:09.850
none of the issues raised

00:17:09.850 --> 00:17:11.850
in the motion for rehearing are new.

00:17:11.850 --> 00:17:14.260
All issues raised in the
motion were already raised

00:17:14.260 --> 00:17:16.527
by the Joneses and
considered by the Commission

00:17:16.527 --> 00:17:20.270
prior to the Commission
issuing its order in this case.

00:17:20.270 --> 00:17:22.510
It is recommended that
the motion be denied.

00:17:22.510 --> 00:17:23.760
The motion will be overruled

00:17:23.760 --> 00:17:27.410
by operation of law on July 22nd, 2021.

00:17:27.410 --> 00:17:29.063
I'm available for questions.

00:17:29.909 --> 00:17:30.742
<v ->Thank you.</v>
<v ->Commissioners,</v>

00:17:30.742 --> 00:17:32.695
we also have Clay Nance representing

00:17:32.695 --> 00:17:35.910
Blackhorn Environmental Services, LLC,

00:17:35.910 --> 00:17:39.070
registered and available
for questions as well.

00:17:39.070 --> 00:17:40.010
<v ->Thank you, Callie.</v>

00:17:40.010 --> 00:17:42.220
Are there any questions of Mr. Nance-

00:17:42.220 --> 00:17:44.120
<v ->Madame-</v>
<v ->Or Kristi?</v>

00:17:44.120 --> 00:17:46.100
<v ->Madame Chair, I'd
like to say a few things</v>

00:17:46.100 --> 00:17:49.840
about this facility and Just
have some comments on it.

00:17:49.840 --> 00:17:52.640
While I am ready to vote on the motion,

00:17:52.640 --> 00:17:54.515
the rehearing based on
the evidence presented

00:17:54.515 --> 00:17:56.750
at this hearing, I wanted to know,

00:17:56.750 --> 00:17:58.680
does both of my fellow
Commissioners know

00:17:58.680 --> 00:18:02.040
that our (indistinct) section
issued a permit suspension

00:18:02.040 --> 00:18:04.760
notice of violation and request
for additional information

00:18:04.760 --> 00:18:07.252
to Blackhorn Environmental Services, LLC

00:18:07.252 --> 00:18:10.063
for this facility last Friday, June 4th.

00:18:11.340 --> 00:18:13.200
You probably understand that Blackhorn

00:18:13.200 --> 00:18:15.090
has requested a hearing in the matter.

00:18:15.090 --> 00:18:16.680
Blackhorn will be required to provide

00:18:16.680 --> 00:18:19.620
responsive information to
prove that they have not violated

00:18:19.620 --> 00:18:21.590
the terms of its permit.

00:18:21.590 --> 00:18:24.780
The people of Texas have
my word that we will continue

00:18:24.780 --> 00:18:27.070
to closely monitor this situation.

00:18:27.070 --> 00:18:30.200
With that, I'm ready to
hear your motion, Chairman.

00:18:30.200 --> 00:18:32.950
<v ->Thank you. Are there any
other questions or comments?</v>

00:18:34.250 --> 00:18:35.083
All right.

00:18:35.083 --> 00:18:37.270
I move we approve the
examiner's recommendation.

00:18:37.270 --> 00:18:38.928
Is there a second?

00:18:38.928 --> 00:18:39.761
<v Wayne>Second.</v>

00:18:39.761 --> 00:18:41.470
<v ->Second by
Commissioner Christian.</v>

00:18:41.470 --> 00:18:42.610
All in favor say aye.

00:18:42.610 --> 00:18:43.873
<v ->Aye.</v>
<v ->Aye.</v>

00:18:43.873 --> 00:18:46.720
<v ->Aye. Motion passes.
That item's approved.</v>

00:18:46.720 --> 00:18:48.100
Thank you, Kristi.

00:18:48.100 --> 00:18:48.933
All right.
<v ->Thank you.</v>

00:18:48.933 --> 00:18:51.783
<v ->Let's move on to the oil
and gas Consent Agenda.</v>

00:18:52.690 --> 00:18:56.320
Those are items 32 through 126.

00:18:56.320 --> 00:18:59.880
There are 95 items on
the Consent Agenda.

00:18:59.880 --> 00:19:02.284
Is there any comments or questions

00:19:02.284 --> 00:19:05.130
or things we need to
take up individually?

00:19:05.130 --> 00:19:07.053
<v ->I just would like
to reiterate again</v>

00:19:07.053 --> 00:19:09.140
that I do have a few comments.

00:19:09.140 --> 00:19:12.660
I want to point out that
almost every single application

00:19:12.660 --> 00:19:16.270
regarding state-wide
rule 32, concerning flaring

00:19:16.270 --> 00:19:19.310
contains a reduction of the overall term

00:19:19.310 --> 00:19:21.970
for the flaring either by
examiner recommendation

00:19:21.970 --> 00:19:24.759
or by voluntary reduction
by the operators.

00:19:24.759 --> 00:19:27.490
In all cases, the
operators do not consider

00:19:27.490 --> 00:19:30.408
the recommendations of
our examiners to be a first.

00:19:30.408 --> 00:19:32.890
In addition, most applications contained

00:19:32.890 --> 00:19:35.750
substantial reductions
in requested volumes,

00:19:35.750 --> 00:19:38.081
some by as much as 86%.

00:19:38.081 --> 00:19:40.250
There already are a couple of operators

00:19:40.250 --> 00:19:42.520
who happen to produce
very poor quality gas,

00:19:42.520 --> 00:19:46.775
rich with hydrogen sulfide,
carbon dioxide and/or nitrogen.

00:19:46.775 --> 00:19:49.780
Those operators don't
appear to have any viable,

00:19:49.780 --> 00:19:52.780
let alone sufficient
pipeline takeaway options

00:19:52.780 --> 00:19:55.860
and have instead
requested flaring applications.

00:19:55.860 --> 00:19:57.879
While those couple of
operators have also voluntarily

00:19:57.879 --> 00:20:00.360
reduced their terms and the volumes,

00:20:00.360 --> 00:20:02.380
I would suggest that
those operators reach out

00:20:02.380 --> 00:20:05.340
to the many third party
vendors who might be able

00:20:05.340 --> 00:20:08.920
to utilize this poor quality
gas in unconventional ways.

00:20:08.920 --> 00:20:11.860
Such methods are becoming
more and more popular

00:20:11.860 --> 00:20:14.256
to effectively address excess flaring.

00:20:14.256 --> 00:20:17.010
With that, I'm ready
to hear your motion.

00:20:17.010 --> 00:20:18.348
<v Christi>Thank you.
Any other questions</v>

00:20:18.348 --> 00:20:20.830
or comments on these?

00:20:20.830 --> 00:20:25.820
All right. I move we approve
items 32 through 126.

00:20:25.820 --> 00:20:27.134
Is there a second?

00:20:27.134 --> 00:20:27.967
<v ->Second.</v>

00:20:27.967 --> 00:20:29.470
<v Christi>Second by
Commissioner Wright.</v>

00:20:29.470 --> 00:20:31.375
All in favor say aye.

00:20:31.375 --> 00:20:32.208
<v ->Aye.</v>

00:20:32.208 --> 00:20:33.510
<v ->Aye. Motion passes.</v>

00:20:33.510 --> 00:20:35.160
Those items are approved.

00:20:35.160 --> 00:20:38.833
We've got, let's move on
to rule 15, inactive wells.

00:20:40.010 --> 00:20:45.010
Let's see, there are 23, I
think, that we are gonna look at.

00:20:45.950 --> 00:20:49.100
Items one 127 through 151.

00:20:49.100 --> 00:20:52.830
Items 141 and 148 are now in compliance,

00:20:52.830 --> 00:20:57.410
so I move that we approve
item 127 through 151

00:20:57.410 --> 00:21:01.360
except for items 141 and 148.

00:21:01.360 --> 00:21:02.788
Is there a second?

00:21:02.788 --> 00:21:03.740
<v ->Second.</v>

00:21:03.740 --> 00:21:05.260
<v ->Second by
Commissioner Christian.</v>

00:21:05.260 --> 00:21:06.797
All in favor say aye.

00:21:06.797 --> 00:21:07.750
<v ->Aye.</v>

00:21:07.750 --> 00:21:09.110
<v ->Aye. Motion passes.</v>

00:21:09.110 --> 00:21:10.400
Those items are approved,

00:21:10.400 --> 00:21:12.815
and let's go to master default orders.

00:21:12.815 --> 00:21:15.670
There are 15 master default orders.

00:21:15.670 --> 00:21:20.670
I move we approve items 152
through 166. Is there a second?

00:21:21.272 --> 00:21:22.105
<v ->Second.</v>

00:21:22.105 --> 00:21:23.450
<v ->Second by Commissioner Wright.</v>

00:21:23.450 --> 00:21:25.001
All in favor say aye.

00:21:25.001 --> 00:21:25.834
<v ->Aye.</v>

00:21:25.834 --> 00:21:27.080
<v ->Aye.</v>
<v ->Aye.</v>

00:21:27.080 --> 00:21:28.160
<v ->Motion passes.</v>

00:21:28.160 --> 00:21:29.510
Those items are approved,

00:21:29.510 --> 00:21:31.931
and let's go to agreed
enforcement orders.

00:21:31.931 --> 00:21:34.959
There are 127 agreed enforcement orders.

00:21:34.959 --> 00:21:39.959
I move that we approve
items 167 through 293.

00:21:41.010 --> 00:21:42.691
Is there a second?

00:21:42.691 --> 00:21:43.524
<v ->Second.</v>

00:21:43.524 --> 00:21:45.330
<v ->Second by
Commissioner Christian.</v>

00:21:45.330 --> 00:21:46.270
All in favor say aye.

00:21:46.270 --> 00:21:49.210
<v ->Aye.</v>
<v ->Aye. Motion passes.</v>

00:21:49.210 --> 00:21:50.380
Those items are approved,

00:21:50.380 --> 00:21:52.880
and that concludes the
hearing sections matter.

00:21:52.880 --> 00:21:55.122
We'll now take up the
administrative agenda.

00:21:55.122 --> 00:21:58.110
Callie, if you'll please
call up our presenter

00:21:58.110 --> 00:21:59.543
for agenda 294.

00:21:59.543 --> 00:22:00.809
Good morning, Randall.

00:22:00.809 --> 00:22:02.579
<v ->Good morning.</v>
<v ->Quick, and already up.</v>

00:22:02.579 --> 00:22:03.657
How are ya?
(Randall laughs)

00:22:03.657 --> 00:22:05.155
<v ->Good morning Commissioner.</v>

00:22:05.155 --> 00:22:06.350
For the record, I'm Randall Collins,

00:22:06.350 --> 00:22:08.290
chief operating officer.

00:22:08.290 --> 00:22:11.500
Item number 294 on the agenda
seeks Commissioner approval

00:22:11.500 --> 00:22:14.580
of solicitations and contract
amendments pursuant

00:22:14.580 --> 00:22:16.460
to the Commission's
delegation of authority

00:22:16.460 --> 00:22:21.229
and section 2261.254 of
the Texas Government Code.

00:22:21.229 --> 00:22:24.240
The Commission's
internal delegation authority

00:22:24.240 --> 00:22:26.450
requires Commissioner
approval of contracts

00:22:26.450 --> 00:22:29.160
and associated amendments
greater than or equal

00:22:29.160 --> 00:22:33.190
to $1 million or contracts
for outside legal services.

00:22:33.190 --> 00:22:36.750
Section 2261.254 of the
Texas Government Code

00:22:36.750 --> 00:22:38.536
requires commercial
approval of contracts

00:22:38.536 --> 00:22:41.523
and associated amendments
greater than $1 million.

00:22:42.420 --> 00:22:45.480
At issue today are two
contracts or solicitations

00:22:45.480 --> 00:22:48.490
and one amended contract
for the continued development

00:22:48.490 --> 00:22:49.690
of the Lone Star system.

00:22:54.412 --> 00:22:58.900
The additional contract is
for outside legal services

00:22:58.900 --> 00:23:03.840
to comply with the bill that was passed

00:23:03.840 --> 00:23:05.890
during the 87th legislature,

00:23:05.890 --> 00:23:08.870
and the necessary approvals
will be in place pursuant

00:23:08.870 --> 00:23:11.710
to the Commission's delegation
of authority and state law.

00:23:11.710 --> 00:23:13.650
A summary of the
contracts and amendments,

00:23:13.650 --> 00:23:15.560
including the numbers and amounts,

00:23:15.560 --> 00:23:17.084
are included in your notebooks.

00:23:17.084 --> 00:23:19.028
Staff requests that the Commission

00:23:19.028 --> 00:23:21.730
to approve the contracts and amendments,

00:23:21.730 --> 00:23:24.280
and I'm available if
you have any questions.

00:23:24.280 --> 00:23:26.900
<v ->Thank you. Are
there any questions?</v>

00:23:26.900 --> 00:23:29.392
All right, I move we approve
staff's recommendation.

00:23:29.392 --> 00:23:30.823
Is there a second?

00:23:32.222 --> 00:23:33.055
<v ->Second.</v>

00:23:33.055 --> 00:23:34.540
<v ->Second by Commissioner Wright.</v>

00:23:34.540 --> 00:23:35.600
All in favor say aye.

00:23:35.600 --> 00:23:38.800
<v ->Aye.</v>
<v ->Aye. Motion passes.</v>

00:23:38.800 --> 00:23:40.850
That item's approved.
Thank you, Randall.

00:23:40.850 --> 00:23:41.710
<v ->Thank you.</v>

00:23:41.710 --> 00:23:45.000
<v ->If you'll please call
up, Callie, for 295.</v>

00:23:45.000 --> 00:23:46.980
Morning Haley.
<v ->Thank you. (laughs)</v>

00:23:46.980 --> 00:23:50.150
Haley Cochran will be
presenting agenda item 295.

00:23:50.150 --> 00:23:52.700
Haley, we are ready when you are.

00:23:52.700 --> 00:23:54.310
<v ->Good morning
chairman, Commissioners.</v>

00:23:54.310 --> 00:23:56.850
Haley Cochran with the
Office of General Council.

00:23:56.850 --> 00:23:59.480
Item number 295 is
staff's recommendation

00:23:59.480 --> 00:24:00.950
to publish proposed amendments

00:24:00.950 --> 00:24:04.760
to 16 Texas Administrative
Code section 8.1

00:24:04.760 --> 00:24:07.670
relating to general
applicability and standards.

00:24:07.670 --> 00:24:10.180
The amendments are
proposed in subsection B

00:24:10.180 --> 00:24:12.670
to incorporate by
reference federal pipeline

00:24:12.670 --> 00:24:15.970
safety requirements added
in recent federal rulemakings.

00:24:15.970 --> 00:24:18.060
The rule would be changed
to adopt the requirements

00:24:18.060 --> 00:24:21.500
by reference as of September 6th, 2021,

00:24:21.500 --> 00:24:22.840
and therefore would incorporate

00:24:22.840 --> 00:24:24.920
four recent federal rulemakings,

00:24:24.920 --> 00:24:27.540
including FMCSA's
minimum safety standards

00:24:27.540 --> 00:24:30.400
for underground natural
gas storage facilities.

00:24:30.400 --> 00:24:32.750
The changes to 8.1 will
allow the Commission

00:24:32.750 --> 00:24:35.850
to submit a certification and
agree to adopt and enforce

00:24:35.850 --> 00:24:37.922
FMCSA's regulations for intrastate

00:24:37.922 --> 00:24:40.880
underground natural
gas storage facilities.

00:24:40.880 --> 00:24:42.560
Staff requests the Commission's approval

00:24:42.560 --> 00:24:43.980
to publish the proposed amendments

00:24:43.980 --> 00:24:46.370
in the Texas Register
for public comment.

00:24:46.370 --> 00:24:48.510
If approved today, the
proposal should appear

00:24:48.510 --> 00:24:51.060
in the June 25th issue of the Register.

00:24:51.060 --> 00:24:52.820
The proposal and an online comment form

00:24:52.820 --> 00:24:55.390
would also be made available
on the Commission's website.

00:24:55.390 --> 00:24:57.480
May I answer any questions?

00:24:57.480 --> 00:25:00.060
<v Christi>Thank you. Are
there any questions?</v>

00:25:00.060 --> 00:25:02.530
All right, I move we approve
staff recommendation.

00:25:02.530 --> 00:25:04.039
Is there a second?

00:25:04.039 --> 00:25:04.930
<v Wayne>Second.</v>

00:25:04.930 --> 00:25:06.400
<v Christi>Second by
Commissioner Christian.</v>

00:25:06.400 --> 00:25:08.387
All in favor say aye.

00:25:08.387 --> 00:25:09.410
<v ->Aye.</v>
<v ->Aye.</v>

00:25:09.410 --> 00:25:10.930
<v ->Motion passes.
That item's approved.</v>

00:25:10.930 --> 00:25:12.560
Thank you, Haley.

00:25:12.560 --> 00:25:16.810
All right, item 296 is
public participation item,

00:25:16.810 --> 00:25:19.390
and Callie, I understand
we have one person

00:25:19.390 --> 00:25:20.820
that is registered.

00:25:20.820 --> 00:25:22.440
<v Callie>We do thank you.</v>

00:25:22.440 --> 00:25:25.763
I'd like to introduce Emma
Pabst with Sierra Club,

00:25:27.900 --> 00:25:32.900
and I believe Emma is,
she won't be on video,

00:25:33.610 --> 00:25:35.620
it'll just be speaking.

00:25:35.620 --> 00:25:40.150
So if you want, Emma,
you now have three minutes

00:25:40.150 --> 00:25:45.150
to speak, and if you,
sorry, Chairman Craddick.

00:25:47.419 --> 00:25:49.370
(laughs) If you would like to continue.

00:25:49.370 --> 00:25:52.427
<v ->It's fine, so Emma
thank you for being here.</v>

00:25:52.427 --> 00:25:53.910
You've got three minutes,

00:25:53.910 --> 00:25:55.810
whatever your comments are, thank you.

00:25:57.150 --> 00:25:58.820
<v Emma>Yes, of course, of course.</v>

00:25:58.820 --> 00:26:01.080
Thank y'all, and good morning.

00:26:01.080 --> 00:26:04.523
I appreciate the opportunity
to join y'all in common here.

00:26:05.450 --> 00:26:07.300
For the record, my name is Emma Pabst,

00:26:07.300 --> 00:26:10.240
and I'm a campaign
representative with the Sierra Club.

00:26:10.240 --> 00:26:11.892
We're a national nonprofit organization

00:26:11.892 --> 00:26:14.670
that functions as one of
the largest member-based

00:26:14.670 --> 00:26:16.643
public interest groups in the nation.

00:26:17.575 --> 00:26:19.810
Here in Texas alone our organization

00:26:19.810 --> 00:26:23.290
has about 29,000 members
and it is on their behalf

00:26:23.290 --> 00:26:25.613
that I offer the following comments

00:26:25.613 --> 00:26:29.140
on your agency's draft
monitoring and enforcement plan

00:26:29.140 --> 00:26:30.883
for fiscal year 2022.

00:26:32.010 --> 00:26:33.810
From demonstrating the
Commission's track record

00:26:33.810 --> 00:26:35.740
on monitoring and
enforcement to the planning

00:26:35.740 --> 00:26:37.790
for safe and effective allocation

00:26:37.790 --> 00:26:40.100
of regulatory resources, the goals

00:26:40.100 --> 00:26:43.333
of the draft monitoring and
enforcement plan are admirable.

00:26:44.230 --> 00:26:47.610
We, the Sierra Club, of
course, supported them in full.

00:26:47.610 --> 00:26:49.360
In order to ensure that the current plan

00:26:49.360 --> 00:26:51.550
is able to achieve those objectives,

00:26:51.550 --> 00:26:55.030
we urge the Commission to
pursue three primary improvements

00:26:55.030 --> 00:26:56.730
to the current draft.

00:26:56.730 --> 00:26:59.620
First, to aim higher on
monitoring inspections

00:26:59.620 --> 00:27:01.460
and enforcement efforts.

00:27:01.460 --> 00:27:03.111
Second, to increase data transparency

00:27:03.111 --> 00:27:05.450
and stakeholder engagement,

00:27:05.450 --> 00:27:07.460
and third to address additional issues

00:27:07.460 --> 00:27:10.990
as introduced by the Texas
legislature this session.

00:27:10.990 --> 00:27:13.750
Firstly, in order to
discourage repeat violations

00:27:13.750 --> 00:27:15.840
and to protect the
state's natural resources

00:27:15.840 --> 00:27:18.680
and our environment, the
Commission should inspect wells

00:27:18.680 --> 00:27:21.810
more frequently, levy higher
penalties against violators,

00:27:21.810 --> 00:27:25.601
and increase minimum fines
for administrative penalties.

00:27:25.601 --> 00:27:28.350
In a state like Texas,
with hundreds of thousands

00:27:28.350 --> 00:27:30.011
of oil and gas wells spread out

00:27:30.011 --> 00:27:33.460
over the 268,000 square miles,

00:27:33.460 --> 00:27:36.304
it can be difficult to enforce the law.

00:27:36.304 --> 00:27:38.660
Renewed monitoring efforts can help

00:27:38.660 --> 00:27:40.480
by raising the well inspections goal

00:27:40.480 --> 00:27:42.970
from 90,000 to a hundred thousand,

00:27:42.970 --> 00:27:46.382
we can encourage operators
to proactively comply.

00:27:46.382 --> 00:27:49.810
Furthermore, the use of
efficient and consistent penalties

00:27:49.810 --> 00:27:53.210
plays a key role in deterring
and punishing violators.

00:27:53.210 --> 00:27:55.510
By levying higher penalties,
the Railroad Commission

00:27:55.510 --> 00:27:58.583
can encourage fair competition
among industry players

00:27:58.583 --> 00:28:02.011
while disincentivizing
dangerous operations.

00:28:02.011 --> 00:28:04.133
Secondly, in order to
increase transparency

00:28:04.133 --> 00:28:06.730
and stakeholder
engagement at the agency,

00:28:06.730 --> 00:28:09.260
the Commission should publish
historical data on the metrics

00:28:09.260 --> 00:28:11.000
that are covered by the plan,

00:28:11.000 --> 00:28:13.340
as well as create additional
outreach strategies

00:28:13.340 --> 00:28:16.370
to educate and engage the
public about the Commission

00:28:16.370 --> 00:28:19.320
and the organization's objectives.

00:28:19.320 --> 00:28:21.770
Since redesigning the
website, key historical data

00:28:21.770 --> 00:28:25.053
on monitoring enforcement and
complaints have disappeared.

00:28:25.930 --> 00:28:27.730
To ensure effective public participation

00:28:27.730 --> 00:28:29.480
in this and other processes,

00:28:29.480 --> 00:28:31.280
that information should be republished

00:28:31.280 --> 00:28:34.060
in the draft plan and
made available online

00:28:34.060 --> 00:28:36.890
on the Commission's website once again.

00:28:36.890 --> 00:28:39.230
Furthermore, like TCEQ,
the Commission should also

00:28:39.230 --> 00:28:41.480
make comments and
complaints available online

00:28:41.480 --> 00:28:43.700
as well as clearly define
the process by which

00:28:43.700 --> 00:28:46.570
public feedback
factors into the draft plan

00:28:46.570 --> 00:28:48.860
and other enforcement efforts.

00:28:48.860 --> 00:28:52.190
This can help build trust and
engagement with the agency.

00:28:52.190 --> 00:28:54.127
Therein finally, the
Commission should address

00:28:54.127 --> 00:28:57.070
the changes called for
by the Texas legislature

00:28:57.070 --> 00:28:59.580
in order to honor the
Texans who lost their lives

00:28:59.580 --> 00:29:01.755
as a result of the February freeze.

00:29:01.755 --> 00:29:04.070
To provide more information
on these suggestions,

00:29:04.070 --> 00:29:06.310
the Sierra Club has submitted
more detailed comments

00:29:06.310 --> 00:29:07.960
to the Railroad Commission.

00:29:07.960 --> 00:29:10.310
By improving the plan
and increasing enforcement

00:29:10.310 --> 00:29:12.470
and monitoring efforts across the state,

00:29:12.470 --> 00:29:14.920
each of you can help steward
the land that we stand on

00:29:14.920 --> 00:29:18.080
and create a safer,
healthier Texas for all of us.

00:29:18.080 --> 00:29:18.913
Thank y'all.

00:29:19.904 --> 00:29:21.233
<v ->Thank you, Ms. Pabst.</v>

00:29:22.337 --> 00:29:25.110
Does anybody have any
questions or comments?

00:29:25.110 --> 00:29:27.100
All right. Thank you very much.

00:29:27.100 --> 00:29:28.580
Yes sir.
<v ->Let me make a comment.</v>

00:29:28.580 --> 00:29:30.791
Just, I appreciate her testimony.

00:29:30.791 --> 00:29:32.170
I'm not referring to her,

00:29:32.170 --> 00:29:34.300
just this additional comment.

00:29:34.300 --> 00:29:37.380
I do want to say that I
do commend our staff,

00:29:37.380 --> 00:29:40.070
and for decades before I ever got here,

00:29:40.070 --> 00:29:43.240
the surface mining reclamation
that we just approved,

00:29:43.240 --> 00:29:45.170
the closing, that's historical.

00:29:45.170 --> 00:29:48.797
I mean that's, when we see
over history that our agency

00:29:48.797 --> 00:29:52.360
has restored property after decades

00:29:52.360 --> 00:29:54.550
to as good or better
than its original use.

00:29:54.550 --> 00:29:56.110
I think that's something
we need to be very,

00:29:56.110 --> 00:29:59.280
applaud our staff and
the decades of those

00:29:59.280 --> 00:30:00.990
that've gone before us
that have implemented that.

00:30:00.990 --> 00:30:03.650
So that's historical, that
shows that we have been

00:30:03.650 --> 00:30:06.270
responsible for decades maybe before

00:30:06.270 --> 00:30:07.870
it even became politically correct

00:30:07.870 --> 00:30:10.390
to make sure that the
environment was cared for.

00:30:10.390 --> 00:30:13.420
And this is absolute proof
that it's in better shape

00:30:13.420 --> 00:30:14.980
than it was when we started.

00:30:14.980 --> 00:30:17.400
Also just to update commending our staff

00:30:17.400 --> 00:30:19.760
that the latest figures I have

00:30:19.760 --> 00:30:21.650
is that in the state of Texas,

00:30:21.650 --> 00:30:25.280
all of the state, right now
seven hundredths of 1%

00:30:25.280 --> 00:30:27.680
of natural gas is being flared.

00:30:27.680 --> 00:30:32.680
That means that over
99%, 99.3% is going 100%

00:30:35.090 --> 00:30:37.887
to its intended safe
environmentally clean use.

00:30:37.887 --> 00:30:41.960
And I think that that
speaks good of those areas

00:30:41.960 --> 00:30:44.410
and the history of the
Texas Railroad Commission.

00:30:45.710 --> 00:30:47.375
<v Christi>Thank you
Commissioner. I agree with you.</v>

00:30:47.375 --> 00:30:51.000
We've come a long
way, and we've got a lot

00:30:51.000 --> 00:30:52.720
of interesting things that it looks like

00:30:52.720 --> 00:30:54.450
we'll be tasked to do in this interim.

00:30:54.450 --> 00:30:58.270
So we'll get to that
update I think next meeting,

00:30:58.270 --> 00:31:00.150
after the Governor has finished signing

00:31:00.150 --> 00:31:01.320
or not signing things.

00:31:01.320 --> 00:31:04.460
But it's been an interesting few months,

00:31:04.460 --> 00:31:06.260
and I think this industry's moving,

00:31:06.260 --> 00:31:08.340
it continues to move
the correct direction,

00:31:08.340 --> 00:31:09.840
so I appreciate it.

00:31:09.840 --> 00:31:10.990
Is there anything else?

00:31:12.120 --> 00:31:15.520
All right, item 297's
our executive session,

00:31:15.520 --> 00:31:17.600
which we won't be going into.

00:31:17.600 --> 00:31:19.120
And if there's nothing else,

00:31:19.120 --> 00:31:21.640
this meeting of the Railroad
Commission is adjourned.

00:31:21.640 --> 00:31:24.850
Thank you all very much.
<v ->Thank you everybody.</v>