Cary should reject Meyer gravel pit

The Cary Village Board is considering a proposal by Meyer Material that would allow strip mining within 200 feet of the residences of the Fox Trails subdivision.

Residents are overwhelmingly opposed, yet the board has delayed the decision for months. I'm pro-business, but this land was never zoned for mining.

Aside from the fact that the gravel pit would be an embarrassment and would significantly decrease the value of our homes and increase noise and dust pollution, there are significant health risks.

The village's own engineer went on record citing a risk to the water supply, and the board has failed to adequately address the consequences of elevated respiratory risks.

I'm expecting my first child in January. I will not accept an environment in which he or she will be subjected to an aggravated and elevated risk of developing childhood respiratory complications.

The village board is responsible for residents' health. I'm sure board members are worried about lawsuits from Meyer if they deny the request. I'd be more worried about class action suits from residents when health risks have been cited and no independent assessments have been conducted.

I'd also be very concerned about the anger of parents whose children will now be put in harm's way. Is a dangerous gravel pit the best economic development plan the village board can come up with?

R.J. Lasek

Cary