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Residents urge council to weigh regional impacts of proposed Cumberland aggregate mine and to preserve Lizard Mountain area
Summary
Two public commenters told the Eden Plus City Council the proposed Cumberland Aggregate Mine and asphalt plant could drive 298–668 heavy trucks per day, use 175,000–250,000 gallons of water daily, and cause noise, traffic and well impacts; another caller urged protection of roughly 990 acres north of Cumberland including Lizard Mountain.
During public comment on July 13, residents pressed the council to consider regional impacts of a proposed Cumberland Aggregate Mine and to support land-preservation efforts north of Cumberland.
Julius Stevens, who identified himself as a resident of unincorporated King County near Enumclaw, said the King County project proposes "25 to 35 years" of gravel removal and warned of heavy-truck traffic that would travel through Enumclaw. "They're looking at throwing approximately 298 to 668 heavy trucks per day into that traffic mode," Stevens said, and added that the operation was in planning for 24 hours a day, seven days a week. He also cited water-use estimates of "175,000 to 250,000 gallons a day" and said noise and road impacts were likely to burden local emergency services and affect neighboring jurisdictions.
Linda Stevens (no relation stated), speaking separately, urged preservation of about "990 acres just north of Cumberland where Lizard Mountain is," saying the area provides river access and recreational trails valued by longtime residents and that neighbors are worried about well impacts if a large project proceeds.
Council members did not take immediate action during public comment but the speakers asked the council to review King County materials and noted the county’s public-comment deadline (August 7). The mayor and city clerk accepted copies of materials to be added to the record.
Why it matters: The mine and associated asphalt plant, if permitted, could produce sustained truck traffic, water withdrawals, noise and road-quality impacts that extend beyond Cumberland and into Enumclaw-area neighborhoods. Local council input can be part of the regional review process and community advocacy.
Next steps: Speakers encouraged council review of King County’s filings and noted the open comment period; council did not vote or direct staff to take a position in the meeting record.
