Letters to the Editor
re: Act 250 Permits for Strip Mines and Quarries

  One of the few places where Act-250 permits are allowed to expire is when they apply to quarries and strip mines. Most other permits never expire.  When quarry permits expire, Act-250 law does not require notification of adjacent land owners, town officials or Regional Planning Districts.  These permits just expire quietly.
  The recent 2004 Huntley Decision in Vermont has made it almost impossible to reopen permits after they expire or are closed.  Any damage caused by previously permitted quarries becomes a problem for their neighbors and communities.  Environmental damage and issues with Public Safety can go on for years.  Such has been the case in Windham with permit #2W0551.  Details can be found at HelpAct250.com.
  The Vermont State Legislature should enact legislation requiring notification be sent to adjacent landowners and local officials prior to expiration or closing of Act-250 permits.  This notification should be early enough to allow time to review the site has met its requirements before the permits are closed.  The cost for notification would be low, and should be the responsibility of the quarry owner.  Letters should be mailed with Vermont Act-250 envelopes.  I understand that in past years an efforts have been made to introduce bills to require notification, but nothing passed.  Many small towns in Vermont have part time officials, who do not have the resources to continuously monitor Act-250 permits.  We need this legislation to help the Act 250 offices keep us informed.  
  The mining industry is important to Vermont.  Most mining seems to be done responsibly.  There has also been legislation proposed to protect permit holders and applicants from undue harassment.  (2005-2006 H.0493)  We should encourage responsible mining.
  In this election season we have extra access to our elected officials and candidates.  Whether you agree with me or not, please take this opportunity to tell them your feelings on this issue.

Sincerely,
Jim McCandless
[email protected]
North Windham, VT