The letter titled “Energy Wants and Needs” in the January 3 print edition claims that development of oil wells in our county will bring major economic benefits, including millions to support schools and other vital services.
These figures come from UCSB’s Economic Forecast Project (EFP), whose research team was hired by Aera (owned by ExxonMobil and Shell). The report admits it relied primarily on information provided by Aera. Really?
Even if we assume the EFP to be correct, it states the total impact of Aera’s project would be under $36 million a year. When put in perspective, agriculture generates $2.8 billion annually and employs more than 25,000 locals; tourism has a $1.9 billion impact. Revenue from oil property taxes makes up less than one percent of our county budget.