Longmont Mayor Pro Tem Brian Bagley’s presence at the Governor’s announcement concerning the compromise deal that removes two potentially devastating oil and gas ballot measures was not coincidental (see more, below). Assuming the deal moves forward, as it now appears it will, the City can stop spending time and money (rumored to be over $500,000) on its battle with the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC).

The City is happy to end its legal battles with the State. Congressman Jared Polis is happy because the State will not proceed with its attempt to limit local control in terms of oil and gas regulations in the precedent setting lawsuit. The deal means that Longmont will be able to enforce the regulations passed by the City Council in 2012 that COGCC argued was illegal.