Park County commissioners were scheduled to talk about a proposed asphalt plant in Fairplay yesterday morning but postponed the discussion after residents flooded the building to voice their concerns.
Elle Bell Mine applied for a conditional use permit for a piece of land just west of Fairplay. The proposed plant would process roughly 2,000 tons of asphalt.
Residents are worried about toxins, water pollution and issues like that, that would jeopardize the well-being of the town and community.
The county’s meeting room has a capacity of 85, and over 250 residents attended yesterday’s meeting. County officials said the protest is premature. Park County Director of Operations Mike Smith told Denver 7 News that yesterday’s meeting would not have provided clarity. Smith said, “People don’t understand the technology and the advances in asphalt plants.”
The proposed plant is relatively small compared to standard asphalt plants and is portable, meaning it could be moved if issues develop. Smith said the 10-year permit would also have 2-year reviews.
The next county meeting will take place on March 20th at the school gymnasium.
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