At the Brooksville City Council meeting on March 16th, Council members discussed the possibility of sending a resolution for or against the Cemex mine expansion to the Hernando Board of County Commissioners. After discussion of Council Members and public comment, they decided to not send a resolution at this point, but monitor developments by maintaining communication with County Staff.
Citizens mostly positioned against the mine expansion filled the room and voiced their concerns. The Council heard 24 minutes of public comment, 4 minutes over the 20 minute limit set for the Cemex issue.
Council Member Erhard was the sole member taking a strong anti-mining position. During discussion, Ms. Erhard directed the following questions toward the current landowners, “Do you live in proximity to the mining? Will you be affected by it?” She reminded Council that they represent the people, work for the people and are accountable to the people. She noted pointedly, “And, as you can see we have a room full of people. With that said, No Mining.”
Council Member Natalie Kahler stated that the Council’s only ability to weigh in on this would be based on the first rights of refusal. She explained that the City of Brooksville’s water lines are in the commercial area and will remain untouched. Ms. Kahler stated “…This is not our issue and I would encourage us to not write a letter because we did not like it when the County Commission was telling us how to run the city. It does not build good working relationships when you are not focused on doing your own job but telling other people how to do their job.”
Council Member Robert Battista and Vice Mayor Joe Johnston agreed that it is not the right time to comment on the issue but it may be prudent to comment if zoning issues arise. They both would like to see City Staff involved with the County staff so they can remain informed about new developments.
With input from three council members against sending a letter at this time, the Council decided to not take any action but directed staff to stay involved with County staff and keep them informed of what is happening.