Sound off against proposed strip mine

I am strongly opposed to this proposed strip mine project — file C898-07 in the Bonner County Planning Department. Although the applicant tries to give the impression that somehow this project is necessary, there is an existing pit a half mile away and equally handy that is not only capable of producing all the material needed for highway expansion but has the added advantages of:

1. It is already permitted with no neighbors to effect. (I guess all the people clambering  to build their dream house next to a mining concern did so at the Linscott site.)

2. It is already approved as a state source of materials.

3. It is gravel pit terrain, i.e.  level  ground with no chance of damage to surrounding properties.

4. It is owned by Bonner County residents rather than leased to a multi-national — shop local, keep the money at home.

5. It is already properly bermed and buffered to minimize noise and dust.

6. It is not perched on the rim of a natural amphitheater.

7. It does not pose a threat to any animals — farm or wild — since, unlike the site in question, it is not located over small farms or a lake on the natural bird path.

8. It is for sale — perhaps Mr. Haman’s lessee should look at this one.

9.  It does not threaten the water quality/supply of neighboring wells.

10. Perhaps most importantly it is not located over the aquifer.

The public hearing on this is still open and will resume Sept. 23 at former Federal Building in Sandpoint, room 208.  If you dislike the idea of this project in your backyard as much as I do please show up.

MICHELLE McVEY

Athol