Mellen Township board protects its residents
August 27, 2019
Eagle Herald
Dear Editor,
My husband and I attended the Mellen Township Meeting on Aug. 21. During the public comment portion of the meeting many residents spoke regarding the mine. It appeared those that attended had concerns regarding Aquila Resources’ contacting the townships to request a Community Contract be signed. This contract is irrevocable and auto-renewing. Aquila Resources has hired a grant writer with promises of equipment and services for government bodies in exchange for signing the contract. Once the contract is signed the government bodies would not be able to make statements against mining and the pollution of our water and air. Why is Aquila Resources doing this? It is because they do not have a social license (public’s trust) for operation of the proposed metallic sulfide mine on the banks of the Menominee River, less than 150 feet from the water. It appears they are trying to buy our approval. The state’s decision to approve this mine weighs heavily on the public’s trust. By signing this contract, you are giving Aquila Resources a social license to operate and approval to pollute our water and air.
Every speaker spoke of not wanting the mine and that our water and air is most important. We all live in this area because of the clean water, fishing, hunting, wildlife and the sheer beauty of the area and have concerns for our future generations. These points were spoken of often at the meeting.
When the township meeting was concluded each board member spoke in response to a request from one of the speakers asking the opinion of the board members regarding the mine and the Community Contract. All members stated they felt the same way as those in attendance. Township Supervisor Thomas Philipps stated Aquila Resources had contacted him regarding the Community Contract and Aquila Resources was told the township was not interested.
It is reassuring to have the entire Township Board state our water and air is not for sale. Thank you goes to all board members for protecting the people of Mellen Township.
A. Piontek
Mellen Township