Concerns over environmental impacts and community safety dominated the recent Moffat County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting, as residents voiced their apprehensions regarding a proposed battery storage project. Local resident Mr. Timmer raised significant issues about the potential for runoff affecting water quality and the visual impact of the project on his property, which is located nearby.

Timmer highlighted the existing challenges with runoff from nearby facilities, noting that water quality in local ponds has already been compromised by sulfur and mineral levels exceeding state limits. He expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of the proposed secondary containment measures and sediment ponds, citing past experiences with similar projects. "We still get runoff from them," he stated, emphasizing the need for thorough environmental safeguards.

The discussion also touched on access routes for the project. Initially planned from the south, the county is now exploring alternative access points from Highway 13, responding to community feedback. Timmer's concerns about dust mitigation during construction were also acknowledged, with officials promising to consider these factors in their planning.

In response to worries about water usage and battery safety, representatives clarified that the proposed battery storage does not require water for operation and that any incidents would not be extinguished with water. They assured the community that a stormwater protection plan would be developed and approved by external agencies before construction begins.

The meeting concluded with a reminder that the current discussion was focused on a zone change from agricultural to heavy industrial use, with the understanding that the land would revert to agricultural status once the project is completed. This ongoing dialogue reflects the county's commitment to balancing development with community concerns, as officials continue to engage with residents to address their questions and fears.