Finally...the news story to go along with the rumor that Hurt, VA had passed an anti-mining resolution.
By John Crane
Published: February 5, 2009
The town of Hurt has passed a resolution opposing the mining and milling of uranium without an independent, conclusive study determining its environmental impact.
Mayor Lillian Gillespie said the town is neither for nor against uranium mining, but it wants a study.
Hurt’s resolution also states the study should include a thorough evaluation of risks resulting from floods and other natural events; be open to the public and press; include the town of Hurt as participants in the study; be conducted by impartial experts such as the National Academy of Sciences; and be given ample time for completion.
Patrick Wales, geologist and spokesman for Virginia Uranium Inc., said he is puzzled by the resolution since a study already is in progress.
“It’s exactly what’s taking place,” Wales said.
VUI seeks to mine and mill a uranium ore deposit six miles northeast of Chatham. The Virginia Coal and Energy Commission approved a study in November and urged the Virginia Center for Coal and Energy Research to contract with the National Academy of Sciences or another institution to conduct it.
The town’s resolution requests that a peer review group independent of the VCEC and the VCCER monitor and critique the study.
Gillespie said sources of energy, including wind, solar and water, and those from uranium, should be explored.
VUI and members of the community working with Southside Concerned Citizens, who oppose uranium mining in Pittsylvania County, each drafted resolutions and presented them to the town council, Gillespie said. SCC members praised the town’s unanimous decision, which took place during the council’s meeting Tuesday night.
Gregg Vickrey, president of SCC’s Chatham-Pittsylvania County chapter, called the town’s move a “huge victory.”
“It is a great first step,” Vickrey said in an e-mail. “Obviously, this local governing body is trying to protect its citizens – the highest priority of any government that truly serves the people.”
The town of Gretna also is considering a resolution regarding uranium mining and milling. The town council will discuss it during its regular meeting Monday night, Town Manager David Lilly said. Gretna and Chatham both considered chemical-trespass ordinances, but abandoned the idea due to legal constraints of the ordinance.
Contact John R. Crane at jcrane@registerbee.com or (434) 791-7987.
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