By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — City Councilors endorsed LD 1853, An Act to Improve Environmental Oversight and Streamline Permitting for Mining in Maine, during Monday night’s meeting, citing job creation as one of the reasons for the decision.
The topic first came up during citizen comments, when Steve Sutter addressed the Council, expressing strong opposition to the bill.
“This would facilitate open mining on Bald Mountain, located on a watershed divide … As of this afternoon, this (bill) was being pushed through committee,” said Sutter, noting 32 pages of draft legislation was “unveiled Saturday, March 24,” with public inspection allowed Monday, March 26.
“I’ve reviewed the draft and see environmental weaknesses, with the primary one being minimal opportunity for public participation during the permitting process,” said Sutter.
Sutter indicated the state currently has only two DEP mining inspectors for roughly 889 quarries in Maine.
“I suggest tabling until you know more about it,” said Sutter.
Council Chair Emily Smith acknowledged Sutter’s opposition, adding, “That’s the first encounter I’ve had with someone opposed.”
“I understand there are potential environmental issues that could come up but believe the bill includes some strong regulations and rules to address, if they do,” said Emily Smith.
Councilor Dick Engels asked if the bill was put forth by DEP. Councilor Randy Smith answered, indicating it was endorsed by DEP.
“They’re (DEP) in charge of taking care (of the environment). If they endorse, I’m inclined to follow,” said Engels. “This may be a case of NIMBY (not in my back yard).” Bald Mountain is approximately 15 miles northwest of Ashland.
“Steve had valid points. I think the state is dealing with an entity that takes pride in being foremost in environmental concerns in the Northeast,” said Randy Smith. J.D. Irving Limited and Carlisle and Prentiss co-own the Bald Mountain property, with Irving now looking at the possibility of mining gold, silver, copper and zinc, should the bill be approved.
“At this point in time, I see no reason to hold back but to agree with the concept. When it (the bill) comes out, I’m sure it will be scrutinized,” said Randy Smith. “I would be for endorsing this bill.”
He said there are some issues with whether the project on Bald Mountain would take power away from municipalities but that it’s more of an interpretation at this point.
Councilor Jessica Chase-Smith also expressed her support of the measure.
“I feel if the DEP is comfortable with it, they’re more aware of issues than we are. We should take their word to some extent,” said Chase-Smith. “I’m sure they’ll be very careful with what’s done here.”
Emily Smith indicated councilors had several letters in their packets “encouraging us to be in support of the bill and the potential for jobs.” Letters included those from private residents, educators, as well as one from Aroostook Partnership for Progress.
Deputy City Manager Martin Puckett, who filled in for City Manager Jim Bennett at Monday’s meeting, said Presque Isle would be joining other communities who’ve already given their support to the bill.
“A variety of other communities testified in Augusta. It was a really intelligent conversation. People had issues with the language of the bill, but those in favor outnumbered those opposed by about 5-1,” said Puckett, who was impressed with the turnout Friday. “They had two spill-out rooms.”
“There was a lot of good discussion — intelligent, well thought out and good discussion,” Puckett said.
“I think we should support, with attention to the environmental impact. Certainly, mining of 30 years ago is not that of today. Regulations certainly have changed,” said Randy Smith. “Again, I would support it with no reservations at this point.”
Engels made the motion to go on record supporting the concept of LD 1853, with the proviso to include sufficient safeguards to prevent reasonable pollution to groundwater. Randy Smith, in seconding the motion, noted that part of the bill includes the statement “an act to improve environmental oversight.”
Councilors voted 4-1 in favor of endorsing LD 1853, with Councilor Peter Hallowell abstaining.
