No ruling on Cary gravel pit

After months of debate, the planning and zoning committee in Cary will pass along no recommendation to its board of trustees on a proposed gravel pit in the community.

The decision came after the committee listened to testimony from Meyer Material Co. and public comments from its residents over the past month.

Meyer wanted residential zoning on land west of the Fox Trails subdivision changed to agricultural. The conditional-use permit the company wanted would allow them to mine the property for the next 10 years.

Chairman Joe Tournier said the result disappointed him.

"This program is a lot more than just a pit," Tournier said before the final 3-3 vote went through. "It's a perfect way to finalize and stabilize the southeast corner of the village. It gives us control of the development and provides a useful benefit to all citizens."

Committee member Frank O'Laughlin didn't attend the meeting and took himself out of the vote because he is an employee in the safety department of Meyer.

The proposal was first brought up in 2006.

Cary residents still thought the battle wasn't over Thursday night.

"They're going to put a gravel pit in my front yard," said Robin Engels of 635 Knollwood Drive, just east of the proposed site. "It's a done deal."

The primary objections to the proposed site were increased health risks and noise pollution, as well as decreased property values.

At the last meeting on July 12, Meyer responded to the concerns and Tournier said the residents never proved any of the concerns were valid.

"There was no evidence to refute the petitioner's testimony," he said.

Meyer's risk manager, Randi Wille, was upset with the result.

"I thought we made a very good and strong case and a positive finish," he said.

Wille said a hearing has been set for Aug. 21 with the village board, which will make the final decision.