The Grand County Council voted Tuesday to join a coalition that wants to build a road, a pipeline and a rail line for eastern Utah energy. The upcoming election could prove to be a referendum on that decision. Hundreds of people wrote letters saying they didn’t want the Grand County Council to sign onto the Seven County Infrastructure Coalition. They see the group as an endorsement of the fossil fuel industry and wildland destruction. But, 6 to 1, council members opted on Tuesday to join the coalition. Jim Nyland is a councilman who says his vote to join ensures Grand County has a seat at the bargaining table. He’s also running for reelection. “We just have a silent majority out there,” he says. “They just watch and listen and, you know, they’ll vote. And, uh, if I lose, that’s just the way it goes.” Challenger Mary Mullen says she’s heard too many good reasons to be wary of the coalition. She’s shocked the council ignored those who don’t want Grand County to be part of it. “As a
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