By Barbara Scott
Staff Writer
During a regular meeting of the Caribou City Council on Monday, March 26, councilors were asked to considered a resolution which would declare Caribou’s position on LD 1853, “An Act to Improve Environmental Oversight and Streamline permitting for Mining in Maine.”Caribou City Manager Steven Buck gave an overview of the proposed resolution and the mining operation project that would take place at Bald Mountain if approved through legislative action following extensive work with the Department of Environmental Protection (which would control the project) and writing of laws.
Buck stated that he had attended a recent meeting at which officials from municipal, state and federal levels and representatives from the J.D. Irving Company who hold the mineral rights were present.
“No permitting will be established for at least two years,” stated Buck. “The proposed Bald Mountain site, approximately 11 miles from Portage, 10 miles from Ashland, located just behind Car Pond is one of the most studied sites in the state. This project could feasibly produce $600 million in employment income; $120 million in state and local taxes, 300 direct jobs and 400 indirect jobs over the 20 to 25-year life of the project, plus equipment sales/jobs and allowing for state colleges/universities to become centers of excellence providing technical education services.”
“The Department of Environmental Protection would 100 percent jurisdiction of this operation from the very beginning to the actual closing of the work area,” said Buck. “New mining laws would be written and fiscal liability would be in place should the operation cease prior to completion and Irving has solicited the most expertise in mining authorities. Also according to Buck, the Irving family stated during the meeting that, “If we can’t do it right, we won’t do it at all.”
The actual mining site on Bald Mountain involves a volcanic vein, which operators would mine from the very top of the mountain traveling down to its base. Studies have confirmed that there are quantitative amounts of silver, copper and gold at this site, the least amount being gold.
“The majority of the opposition is coming from environmental groups from outside the state, who are coming here to protect us from ourselves,” Buck commented.
After lengthy discussion Mayor Kenneth Murchison has what action the council would take. Councilman David Martin said although he would like to see the changes that will be made in the permitting laws, he would sign the resolution showing his and the city’s support. Councilman Philip McDonough echoed this statement.
The motion to show support for LD 1853, “An Act to Improve Environmental Oversight and Streamline Permitting for Mining in Maine,” was carried.
Councilwoman Mary Kate Barbosa voted against the motion. “I’m not voting against what this document is about but I am not comfortable voting in favor of it at this time because I would like to have had more time to become familiar with the information.”
Councilman Gary Aiken abstained from voting citing a conflict of interest regarding the Irving Company.
Councilman Bryan Thompson was not in attendance.
