Pottawatomie County Commissioners heard an hour of public comment Monday regarding a proposed rock quarry near Wheaton by Topeka-based Mid-States Materials.
The Planning Commission voted earlier this spring 4-3 to recommend denial of a conditional use permit for the quarry. Concerned landowners spoke about why they are opposed to the project. Travis Ross, a fourth generation farmer in the area, is worried about natural resources that could be impacted.
Nearby landowner Natalie Krohn expressed frustration with the commission for drawing out the process for consideration, following the Planning Commission’s initial denial.
Mid-States Materials representative Rich Eckert explained why the company has such an interest in this location.
Some residents have shared concerns that quarrying will bring more dust into the Wheaton area and jeopardize underground wells. Eckert says Mid-States Materials has never had a claim against a water well to date in any prior projects.
Kansas Gas Service Community Relations Manager Kara Titus says it has engaged Mid-States Materials to help move the project forward. She says they recommend the county amend the fifth condition on the permit.
Resident Lawrence Ubel recommended the county board send the issue back to the planning commission.
Commissioners will hold a special evening meeting June 20 where a vote may take place to override or uphold the Planning Commission’s decision. That meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. at the Sunflower Room in Westmoreland.
To read more extensively about the ongoing projects up for consideration visit pottcounty.org.
Full public comment from citizens is below:
Full public comment from the applicant is shared below:
