RANDALLSVILLE - Town of Lebanon officials have adopted a resolution seeking an independent investigation into the two recent natural gas well rig fires in the region.

The resolution calls on state lawmakers to launch an independent investigation into the cause of the rig fires that have occurred in the towns of Smyrna (Chenango County) and Lebanon (Madison County) since January 1 to ensure that “proper oversight and future prevention strategies are implemented so that no such future incidents would recur, and to prevent the potential for a more serious gas well fire.”

Town representatives also asked state lawmakers to bring together local governments, state agencies, landowner groups, the New York State Farm Bureau and the natural gas industry oversight board for a discussion and review of public health, environmental concerns and property rights issues, among others.