The Great Lakes Business Network today applauded Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s revocation of Enbridge Energy’s Line 5 operating easement following a comprehensive review of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
“Enbridge’s long history of safety violations and environmental devastation more than justify this decision to revoke the Line 5 easement and protect the residents and businesses of Michigan,” said Larry Bell, GLBN co-chair and president of Bell’s Brewery. “I applaud the governor for taking the necessary steps to remove this threat to the Great Lakes.”
“This is a win for Michigan, the Great Lakes and our regional economy,” said Rich Bergmann, owner of Round Lake Group LLC. “I thank the governor for holding Enbridge accountable for their risky and dangerous pipeline operations, which have threatened our water and way of life for far too long.”
“At a time when businesses are facing unprecedented challenges, eliminating the catastrophic risk of a Line 5 oil spill or rupture is more important than ever.”
Chris Shepler, President, Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry
“The Great Lakes are essential to our economy and way of life and we commend this decision to protect our natural resources for future generations,” said Juliette King McAvoy, GLBN co- chair and project manager for King Orchards. “The governor has shown herself to be an environmental leader, recognizing that some risks are far too great. I thank Gov. Whitmer for taking steps to revoke Enbridge’s Line 5 easement and protect the interests of Michigan communities and businesses as a top priority.”
“I want to thank Gov. Whitmer for taking this significant step to protect my family’s business and all businesses across the Great Lakes region that rely on Great Lakes tourism,” said Chris Shepler, president of Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry. “At a time when businesses are facing unprecedented challenges, eliminating the catastrophic risk of a Line 5 oil spill or rupture is more important than ever.”
“This is an enormous win for Michigan’s thriving blue economy and the continued health of our cherished Great Lakes,” said Beryl Skrocki, owner of Sleeping Bear Surf and Kayak. “I thank the governor for making this extremely difficult and historic decision on the Line 5 easement.”
“Gov. Whitmer’s decision to decommission Line 5 is a tremendous step forward for the communities and businesses that rely on the Great Lakes,” said Bob Sutherland, president of Cherry Republic. “We celebrate this win for clean water and this opportunity to direct our focus toward building a clean and resilient energy portfolio for Michigan.”
