The new non-metallic mining ordinance is churning its way to the Waupaca County Board for approval.
An ad hoc committee was appointed, then given the task that had originally been assigned to the Implementation and Steering Committee.
Many hours have been spent adding, subtracting and re-writing to develop an ordinance that addressed the problems associated with mining.
Combining the specific differences of traditional sand or gravel pits with industrial sand mines under one umbrella created more problems.
The committee was also directed to address all verifiable concerns as “expressed by many citizens over the effects to air quality, water quality, quality of life and of the county to maintain stable communities.”
The zoning office and committees have finished their parts and are moving the proposed ordinance forward for approval in March.
The completed non-metallic mining ordinance draft is now being sent to the clerks of all towns for review.
Your opportunity to see this ordinance is to attend your February town meeting or contact your town clerk. This is a very short time for a town board to absorb an ordinance that took months to draft. Your town board should be encouraged to request more time to be sure this is good for their town and residents.
I believe the concerns as mentioned above have not been adequately addressed and need more attention. It will be your air, your water and your quality of life.
Tania Wadzinski
Town of Little Wolf