M-52 Mine Expansion – Determination at May 16 Meeting
M-52 Mine Expansion – Determination at May 16 Meeting
The Sharon Township Mineral Licensing Board (MLB) has conducted three meetings to review the license application by Aggregate Industries to expand the operation of the existing mines on both sides of M-52. At its fourth meeting, Monday, May 16 at 6:30, the MLB hopes to conclude the review with a determination on the proposal.
According to the township’s ordinance for Mineral Extraction (see Chapter IV, Land Use Regulations, pps 44-57)for reviewing a license application, the MLB has several options for its determination:
- Approve the license – based on criteria outlined in the ordinance
- Disapprove the license
- Conditionally disapprove the license – until the applicant submits documents to prove the license should be approved
- Extend the review period
Sharon Preservation Society has submitted two documents to the MLB:
- A list of questions and concerns it wishes Aggregate Industries to address prior to the MLB’s determination
- A list of conditions it requests the MLB to consider in its determination
Fundraising for Informational Event
We know many residents are concerned about the proposed 400-acre mine on Pleasant Lake Rd. Sharon Preservation Society will host an informational event – tentatively scheduled for July 23 – to help residents understand the impact of such a large-scale operation. It would be held outside, under a tent, rain or shine.
We plan to host panels of experts that can answer residents’ questions on:
- The impact of mining on a community
- The impact of a package of bills in the state legislature that would eliminate the townships control over permitting and regulating aggregate mining.
If you are concerned, this is the best opportunity yet to get informed.
Fundraising
We are hoping to raise $3000-3500 for the event. We have already raised about $1000. Please consider donating. We accept checks or PayPal donations.
We will also be requesting volunteers to help with the event. Contact Us if you might be interested.
Special thanks to the recent anonymous donor – and to all the donors to date! Thank you!!
FB Administrator
Finally, we are looking for a volunteer to set up and co-host an FB page for the event and make occasional ongoing updates.