Air Quality Health & Safety Needs VS. Gypsum Mining

In this week’s city council meeting the issue Gypsum Mine expansion was placed before the city council in which two council members were absent.

Three council members approved the Mines request with one member being somewhat hesitant……but who conceded with a yes vote.

The good thing about this meeting was a thorough review of procedures to be followed to minimize the impact upon the adjacent residential community. The company representative displayed a genuine interest and concern, promising to be responsive to city regulations and residents………  THIS IS A GOOD THING. 

Two concerned citizens who attended the meeting expressed their disappointment that the nearby residents were not given adequate notice and that they were not allowed or given an opportunity to publicly address their elected representatives to express their concerns for the safety and wellbeing of children attending a nearby school and those with health issues.

It was pointed out and acknowledged by city council members that Air Quality Monitoring Devices were insufficient.  A continued effort by the city to purchase needed equipment was to continue………however it was decided to move forward and allow the expansion of the gypsum mine…… This is problematic as it places mining interests ahead of community health interests.

It was pointed out that an Air Quality monitoring device would cost $25,000. It is interesting to note that a recent city council meeting the city approved three monument style displays announcing to travelers that they were entering the city of St. George. The cost of these 3 monuments was approximately $68,000.

It appears that beautifying the city trumps the health interests of its citizens when it comes to Air Quality.

The placement of the existing Air Quality monitoring device was reported to be on Mine property where efforts are made to water down particles being released into the atmosphere.

The two residents reflected that if they had been given the opportunity to address the council they would have suggested that the Air Quality monitoring devices be placed adjacent to the school or nearby homes to better measure what the wind was caring into their community.

It does appear that city government can and should be more understanding of parents' concerns for the health of their children……….I agree and when elected  will act to remedy this matter.

-Ed