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Wright County declines new EAW for proposed sand-and-gravel mining; vote 4–1
Summary
The Wright County Board voted 4–1 to determine a discretionary Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) is not required for a sand-and-gravel mining petition at the 25/113 intersection parcel, citing a prior negative declaration in 2022; nearby residents raised traffic and safety concerns.
Planning and Zoning staff and the board briefed the county on a petition that went to the state Environmental Quality Board seeking a discretionary Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) for proposed sand-and-gravel mining at a parcel adjacent to the 25/113 intersection.
Barry Reinberger recounted the history: the board ordered a discretionary EAW in 2021 for an interim use permit to mine sand and gravel, and after the EAW process the board made a negative declaration in September 2022 that an Environmental Impact Statement was not required. Reinberger said the current petition relates to the same property and that the earlier negative declaration was the basis for recommending that another EAW not be required.
Commissioner Dietrich and residents raised concerns about traffic counts, truck movements and safety on nearby roads if mining resumed. After discussion Commissioner Holland moved and Commissioner Shane seconded a resolution (25‑90) determining a discretionary EAW is not required; the board approved the resolution 4–1.
The dissenting vote reflected traffic and safety concerns voiced by local residents and at least one commissioner. Planning staff directed that they would continue to monitor any changes and communicate with affected townships and residents.
