Breathing may be hazardous to your health

The July 25 meeting at Temeku Hills was planned by the HOA to inform homeowners and surrounding communities about the quarry. Granite Construction and SDSU were invited to speak. SOS-Hills was involved from the beginning. Granite was informed about every detail of the meeting. All communication was documented. There were no “surprises.” The meeting picked up momentum as people were informed. Hundreds of people received e-mails, fliers, phone calls.

Forty-eight hours before the meeting, Granite backed out! Retreated without so much as a “white flag.” “Granite did not realize this was a public meeting,” said Karie Reuther. NOT true. She also stated, “We believe SOS-Hills’ participation will detract from an open and objective discussion.” Huh? I thought that was why there were two sides.

Personally, I understand why Granite made this choice. It would be difficult to give accurate answers with no facts to back them up. A tough spot to be in, for sure.

Temeku Hills HOA canceled the meeting. Hundreds of people were expected. What about the people?

SOS-Hills, at great expense, with the help of Rainbow Against The quarry, stepped in! They rented the hall, assumed expenses and went forward with the meeting… for ONE reason only: the people showing up had a right to be informed.

Nearly 300 people showed up. It was a tremendous success! The speakers were knowledgeable and informed. Some important information came from Penny Nolan (Center for Community Action and Environmental Justice). She spoke about the severe health threat of diesel exhaust particulate pollution. This pollution, along with silica dust, is ultra-fine particles that pass through cells into the heart, the blood and have been proven to enter the placenta of an unborn child.

Quarries built in communities change the way people look at that community. It is no longer rolling hills and beautiful wine country. It becomes an “industrial” area, a “dumping ground” for more of the same (quarries, hazardous waste sites and the like).

If someone tells you often enough “You won’t see it, hear it, feel it,” you may actually start to believe it. Don’t.

Jerri Arganda