For a second time in less than a year voters in Youngstown, Ohio have rejected an amendment that would prohibit fracking in the city of Youngstown, this time by a margin of 55 percent to 45 percent. This margin mirrors the previous vote in May which failed as well by a 57 percent to 43 percent margin. Fracking Ban Park Panel Nixed

The Community Bill of Rights Committee who supported the ban was drastically outspent in their effort to pass the amendment. According to recent finance reports, The Community Bill of Rights Committee spent just $693 to promote passage of the initiative, while opponents such as the United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 396 spent $74,449 to defeat the measure.

Representatives of the Ohio Oil and Gas Association noted that two consecutive and decisive losses on the ballot should send a message to fracking opponents that the community supports oil and gas jobs and this investment. Tom Humphries, president of the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber added, “Voters have spoken twice and they are clear. It sends a good message to the oil and gas industry that the community understands the importance of this opportunity to grow our economy. It’s more than the drilling; it is the supply chain that goes along with it.” the Akron-Beacon Journal reports.

The Community Bill of Rights Committee has pledged, however, to fight to pass the measure saying “We will continue on. It will be back in some form or another. We’re not quitting. We’re coming back,” reports the Akron Beacon Journal.