Citizens need more chances to be heard

Posted

A meeting was set by the county: “a facilitated forum for local surface mine operators of Yacolt Mountain Quarry and nearby residents.” 

I saw only two residents and one possible group on the invitation. We were given three days’ notice. The meeting was on Friday at 2:30 p.m., a time when the residents are at work or waiting for their children to get off the school bus. Even for those who can make this time work, this is not enough time to prepare or make arrangements. How many times are we expected to take time away from work before we are heard?



We are expected to meet in a public forum when some of us have already testified that people feel intimidated to come forward. The reporters were invited before the county knows if the citizens are able to attend. We are contributing taxpayers trying to protect our families, homes, and the East Fork of the Lewis River.