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Reid Testifies In Opposition To Sloan Hills Gravel Pit
Legislation will stop gravel mine and protect thousands of Henderson residents
June 16, 2010 – Washington, D.C. – Nevada Senator Harry Reid today testified before the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources in support of legislation he introduced to block the development of a major gravel mine at Sloan Hills, near the Anthem and Inspirada neighborhoods of Henderson. Over the past year, thousands of southern Nevadans contacted Reid to express their concerns about the proposed gravel pit that would run 24-hours a day, 7 days a week. Reid’s bill will stop the mine from being developed. Since Reid introduced the bill on May 5, every member of the Nevada congressional has declared their support for his legislation. Clark County Commissioner Steve Sisolak also testified in support of Reid’s legislation at today’s hearing.
Below is Reid’s testimony as prepared for delivery to the Subcommittee:
“Chairman Wyden and distinguished committee members, thank you for holding a hearing on this important bill. The proposed Sloan Hills gravel mine is a threat to the well-being of the people of Henderson, Nevada. I have heard from many residents living just a stone’s throw from the planned mine site, and they are deeply concerned that this project will severely affect their home values, their health, and their overall quality of life. My bill, the Sloan Hills Withdrawal Act, will make sure that the proposed gravel quarry does not go forward.
“The opposition to the proposed gravel mine is overwhelming. I have received petitions with thousands – literally thousands – of signatures from people who are up in arms about the proposed gravel mine. I am pleased to tell you, as well, that every member of the Nevada congressional delegation has decided to support my legislation. We are unanimously opposed to the Sloan Hills Mine proposal. And, as you will hear today from Commissioner Steve Sisolak, who represents most of the city of Henderson, so too is the Clark County Commission.
“Mr. Chairman, like you I consider our public lands to be a great treasure. We use them to hike and bike and camp and explore. But we also use these lands to provide basic materials to some of our critical industries. Our challenge – and it is a great challenge – is to find the best places for each of the activities that we need and want on our public lands.
“My legislation says, definitively, that the proposal to place a major round-the-clock gravel mine next to existing and growing neighborhoods in Henderson is not in the public interest. The risks outweigh the rewards. The companies can find other places to mine gravel. The people of Henderson, however, cannot find other places to live, to work, to raise their families. They have put down roots, and they deserve our help.
“I appreciate your time today, and your help in moving this legislation. I thank you and the people of southern Nevada thank you.”
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