Controversy surrounds the elimination of map 14

When mines are proposed, most homeowners think about the noise, dust and invading in their neighborhood. But tonight, Lee County leaders said they have a plan to eliminate your fears.

For once and for all, Lee County Commissioner Brian Hamman wants to end what he said is misinformation and controversy surrounding the push to eliminate what’s known as “map 14” in Lee County.

“I get why people are concerned,” Hamman said. “Mining, just the word is a trigger word. It conjures up all sorts of weird images in your head of horrible things happening. Ninety-five percent of our mining regulations are staying intact.”

Proposed mines must get on map 14 before approval.

“When it comes to map 14, some of the language that gets you on map 14 is very vague or ambiguous,” Hamman said.

Linda Nelson, who lives next to the Old Corkscrew Plantation proposed mine, said she has tons of concerns and believes getting rid of map 14 would make it easier for more mines to come.

“The amount of blasting that is going to be done,” Nelson said. “Our home is less than 100 feet from the property line the noise the dust from it.”

Nelson also fears what would happen if the county requirement that mining companies provide a demand study before being allowed to operate.

“It’s unreliable,” Hamman said. “It’s inaccurate and it’s something that we don’t do in any other industry in the county. We don’t make grocery stores prove we need another grocery store.”