Madison concrete plant a threat to quality of life

When the strongest part of our community is threatened by a small group of people desiring to capitalize on the loss of our jobs and safety, and when an obviously compromised planning board of our county ignores the pleas of residents and analysts alike, a feeling of confused and widespread anger expands in no small supply.

The concrete plant that is being considered for Madison County has been completely exposed for what it is, and no secret remains regarding its destructive and harmful existence. Considered economically, the concrete plant will devalue all surrounding property by millions of dollars while destroying far more jobs than it will create. Considered in terms of safety, the most affected victims of the plant's bellowing arsenic will be the daycare center and Elderberry Nursing Home located less than a quarter-mile away. Considered in terms of traffic, the concrete plant will add another 80 or so dump trucks a day to our roads. Our water supply will be tapped and its already limited use will be stressed by approximately 2,000 more gallons a day (what approximately 20 residential homes would use), while the runoff generously shared by the plant will contaminate the water of residents living only 200 feet from the proposed building site.

These ominous facts, of which there are many more, are far from being mere compromises. They are above all an act of war against a culture founded on families, security, beauty and safety.

There is an obvious reason that Buncombe County placed a moratorium on these types of industry, as concrete plants clearly belong in locations that cater to their numerous hazards and demands. It is not optional for us to come together against such a proposal — it is the minimum of what is necessary if we are to enjoy living in our county.

— Frank Lombardo
Marshall

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One thought on “Madison concrete plant a threat to quality of life

  1. dhalgren999

    Whats a little air, water, noise and land pollution when you consider a profit is being made? Surely your not a socialist sir?

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