Atchison County discusses quarry project and health safety concerns with community

Concerns over a proposed quarry in Atchison County took center stage at the recent county commission meeting, as officials grappled with the implications of a 25-year contract that could significantly impact local residents. The contract, which includes four annual renewals, covers a staggering 470 acres, raising alarms about potential health and safety hazards.

Commissioners expressed their surprise at the sudden announcement of the quarry's impending operations, set to begin on May 24. Discussions revealed that while the landowner supports the project, many constituents are opposed, highlighting a unique situation where the landowner's interests conflict with community concerns.

Legal options for the county were a focal point of the meeting, with discussions around land use regulations and zoning. The county's authority to impose restrictions on land use was emphasized, with references to the Kansas Attorney General's opinions on protecting public health and safety. However, the lack of a comprehensive zoning system in Atchison County complicates the situation, as many residents have voiced strong opposition to zoning measures.

Commissioners debated the feasibility of drafting a resolution to address community concerns, with suggestions to gather signatures from residents opposed to the quarry. The potential for legal challenges from the quarry developers was also a concern, as any regulatory actions taken after the contract's establishment could be viewed as punitive.

As the meeting concluded, officials acknowledged the need for further investigation into the quarry's permitting process and the possibility of reaching out to the developers to express community concerns. The urgency of the situation was clear, with the commission planning to revisit the topic in upcoming meetings to explore potential actions that could safeguard the interests of Atchison County residents.