Shell is hosting a town hall on Thursday—but only Center Twp residents with a “golden ticket” can attend. If you’re one of them, we’ve got you covered. Whether it’s the Title V permit, Plan Approval D, or a potential sale, here are the real questions that demand answers.
Talking Points
The Community Deserves Transparency — No Matter Who Owns the Plant
Whether Shell keeps or sells the facility, we need clear and honest communication about what’s happening. A sale could bring new owners who may not have the same commitments — or who could be less responsive to the community. We need answers and assurances now.
The Title V Permit Is a Big Deal — It Will Shape the Plant’s Pollution Limits for Years
Shell’s Title V permit determines how much pollution this plant is allowed to emit into our air. It’s legally binding and will be in place for up to 5 years. We have a right to push for the strictest pollution controls and strong public oversight before this permit is finalized.
Plan Approvals Can Open the Door to Expansion or Increased Emissions
Every time Shell (or a future owner) seeks a Plan Approval, it could mean more pollution, bigger operations, or new infrastructure. These approvals must be scrutinized carefully, especially if changes could harm nearby communities or add to existing burdens.
A Sale Doesn’t Erase Shell’s Track Record
Shell has already racked up multiple permit violations and harmed community trust. If they plan to walk away, they should not be allowed to wipe the slate clean. Any buyer must be held accountable for past violations and expected to do better — starting day one.
This Is Our Chance to Speak Up and Shape What Happens Next
From the Title V permit to any Plan Approvals or ownership changes, these processes are open to public comment. We have the right — and responsibility — to demand stronger protections, stricter limits, and meaningful community engagement.
- Questions to Ask About Shell’s Title V Permit
- Will this permit allow Shell to increase pollution levels, production, or flaring activity?
- How will Shell’s emissions be monitored under the new permit?
- What consequences will Shell face for exceeding emission limits or violating permit conditions?
- Will this permit include enforceable penalties if Shell violates its pollution limits again?
- Will there be independent, third-party oversight to ensure Shell complies with the permit?
- Can Shell’s permit be revoked or modified if ongoing violations continue?
- Will the permit require Shell to submit annual public reports or host community updates?
- What happens if Shell sells the plant — will the new owner be bound by this permit?
- Will this permit consider cumulative health impacts on surrounding communities?
- Can community members request translation or accessibility services for public hearings or comment materials?
Questions to Ask About Shell’s Plan Approval D Permit
- What exactly is Shell proposing to build, modify, or install under this Plan Approval?
- Will this project result in more emissions, new flaring equipment, or expanded operations?
- How will this project impact nearby homes, schools, or natural areas?
- What pollutants will be released from this new or modified source?
- What air pollution control technologies will Shell be using — and are they the best available?
- Will Shell be required to monitor and report emissions from the new equipment?
- When will the public comment period for this Plan Approval begin?
- How can community members submit concerns or request a public hearing?
- Will PA DEP provide plain-language summaries of Shell’s application for the public?
- What happens if Shell’s actual emissions exceed what was proposed in the application?
- How often will PA DEP inspect the new equipment to ensure compliance?
- If this project is approved, will it limit residents’ ability to challenge future expansions?
Questions to Ask About a Potential Sale
- Will the plant continue to operate under new ownership, and how might this affect current production levels?
- What assurances are there that existing jobs will be retained, and will employee benefits and wages remain consistent?
- Are there plans for workforce expansion or reduction following the sale?
- How will the new owner address existing environmental commitments and ongoing compliance with regulations?
- Will current environmental permits and obligations transfer seamlessly to the new owner?
- What measures will be in place to ensure continued transparency in environmental reporting and community engagement?
- How does the prospective buyer plan to engage with the local community and address ongoing concerns?
- Will the new owner honor Shell's previous commitments to community development and investment?
- Are there plans to establish new community programs or initiatives under new ownership?
- Who are the potential buyers, and what is their track record in managing similar facilities?
- What is the expected timeline for the sale, and how will the transition be managed to ensure minimal disruption?
- How will information about the sale and transition be communicated to employees and the community?
- What support systems will be in place for employees during the ownership transition?