Residents React To Lake Hefner Drilling Withdrawal

Opponents of a local oil company's bid to drill next to Lake Hefner got a late Christmas present Friday.

Edmond-based Pedestal Oil engaged Oklahoma City with a plan to drill for oil and gas on the Lake's South end earlier this year.

Last week at a raucous public forum however, residents made it clear they absolutely hated the idea, citing concerns about the environment and people's safety.

Friday, the city announced Pedestal had scuttled their plan.

Jack Bedingfield lives in the Edgewater neighborhood which is very close to what was the proposed drilling site.

“I own investments in the oil business, I have nothing against the oil business,” he said. “But these people picked the wrong spot to drill an oil well.”

News 9 called Pedestal President David Singer Friday afternoon. There has not been a response.

12/26/14 Related Story: Oil Company Withdraws Lake Hefner Drilling Proposal