The town of Gorham has two rock quarries and one asphalt plant close to the center of town. Quarries affect air quality, increase health risks, create noise pollution and water contamination, cause habitat destruction, decrease property values and challenge structural integrity of surrounding residences.
Yes, we need quarries. They are part of the fabric of modern society. However, quarries can be regulated in such a way to decrease the impact on the neighbors and surrounding environment. The Gorham quarry regulations are inadequate, and no asphalt plant regulations exist.
Gorham should place a moratorium on all quarry expansions, limit the size of blasting and the amount of aggregate and traffic leaving the quarries each month while monitoring air emissions on a 24/7 basis. Limitations such as these are commonplace in other quarries around the state. Meaningful limitations should be adopted by the town of Gorham before any discussion on expanded quarries and contract zones occurs. Our group is 195 members strong on Facebook, with many more who are not on social media. Please join us. Let the town citizens’ voices be heard.
Charles Hamblen
Gorham
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