Debate Over Proposed Pipeline in Pembroke Township

About half of all homes in the U.S. are heated using natural gas, but there’s a growing push to move away from fossil fuels. This debate is happening now in the community of Pembroke Township in Kankakee County, Illinois — and it’s getting national attention, including from civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson. 

The area has never had natural gas. Instead, residents rely on propane, electricity, and in some cases, wood-burning stoves. Some city and state leaders, and Rev. Jesse Jackson are advocating for a pipeline there to connect the town with gas from the company Nicor.

The 21st spoke with a reporter from the Chicago Sun-Times, a mayor, and a sustainable farmer to hear more about the proposed pipeline. 

Guests:

Brett Chase, Reports on Environment, Planning, Public Health, Chicago Sun-Times 

Mark Hodge, Hopkin’s Park Mayor 

Dr. Jifunza Wright-Carter, Sustainable Farmer, Black Oak’s Center

Prepared for web by Zainab Qureshi

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