From Carolina Journal Radio Program No. 769: Gov. Roy Cooper’s administration ended months of speculation by approving a key water-quality permit for the Atlantic Coast Pipeline. While complaints from environmental activists grabbed headlines, Cooper also raised eyebrows by announcing the creation of a new fund totaling nearly $58 million. Cooper says the money can fund more than just mitigation of the pipeline’s environmental impact. The funds might also pay for economic development and renewable energy projects. Critics contend this money represents a “slush fund.” Rick Henderson, Carolina Journal editor-in-chief, analyzes the pipeline’s latest developments.