Proposed Gravel Pit Near North Liberty Upsets Some Neighbors

The South Bend Tribune's Erin Blasko reports.  Excerpt:
 

County Council member Dan Herbster, R-District F, said he has heard from constituents about the gravel pit and is "still trying to wrap my head around what the operation will be like."

At the same time, "I think people should have the liberty to use their property as they wish as long they don't harm their neighbors or the environment," he said.

Herbster added that J.W. Green has promised to clean up the site after it is finished mining there in 10 years, leaving behind a large pond, a wooded area for animals and enough space along the road for several houses.

County Commissioner Dave Thomas, D-District 2, said the company also has pledged to straighten Osborne Road, eliminating the hard left at Osborne Trail.

"That's a huge safety improvement on that stretch of road," he said, and "a significant gift to the county" when combined with promised upgrades to Osborne Road.

Thomas added that the project would create jobs and add value to the land, which would benefit the county in terms of property taxes.

"There are just a lot of positives here," he said.

Some residents agree.