Gogebic County board reaffirms support for Copperwood Mine after public objections

The Gogebic County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously April 23 to reaffirm the county's support for the Copperwood Mine Project following a presentation from a local environmental group and public comment largely opposing the proposal.

Tom Grotewohl, speaking for Protect the Porkies, told commissioners he and other opponents contend the proposed mine would be too close to the Porcupine Mountains and Lake Superior, create noise pollution, pose risks from toxic chemicals and generate a visible waste facility that could be seen from Copper Peak, Lake of the Clouds and the North Country Trail. He also raised the risk of dam failure, questioned Highland Copper's experience operating mines, flagged inconsistent job estimates tied to the proposal, and said it was unclear how a stated $50 million state grant would be used or how the local economy would fare after mine closure.

Chairman Dan Siirila asked Grotewohl about his residency; Grotewohl said he lives in Wakefield Township and is a taxpayer. After the presentation, Commissioner Matonich moved to reaffirm the county's support for the Copperwood Mine Project; Commissioner Yon supported the motion and it passed by unanimous voice vote.

Twelve members of the public used the public comment period to voice opposition to the project. Minutes record that those speakers raised environmental and economic concerns similar to those Grotewohl outlined, though the record does not quote speakers verbatim.

The board's reaffirmation is recorded in the meeting minutes as a carried motion; no amendment or condition to the reaffirmation was recorded in the minutes. The meeting also included routine county business and financial actions, which the board approved before adjourning at 6:04 p.m.