To all the residents north, south, east and west of the proposed Turnbull Gravel Pit (including Aspen Hills, Hillview Estates, Sturgeon Heights, Matchayaw Lakeshore residents)

SINCE YOUR PROPERTY IS CLOSE TO THE PROPOSED TURNBULL GRAVEL PIT, PLEASE WRITE THIS LETTER. (Click Here to download in editable Word format)  

Explanation of Issue:

We expect that the Yellowhead Aggregates will provide Alberta Environment with their "registration application" between October and December 2008.
It is urgent that we elevate this from a "registration" to an "approval" so as to better protect our environment and create our citizens' rights in this decision making!

Gravel pits are generally covered by " codes of practice " and therefore only need to be "registered " with, rather than needing an " approval " from Alberta Environment. Under a code of practice registration, there is no portal for Alberta citizens' input or objection. However under section 66.1 of the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act the ABENV Director can require a gravel company who is applying for a registration of an activity (which you do under a code of practice) to apply for an approval if he is of the opinion that an approval is necessary to address environmental protection. This elevation from a registration to an approval would assist our community, as directly affected parties have rights under an approval. Under an approval, a directly affected party can be involved in the approval process through filing a statement of concern. The director must consider these although, how much depends on the director. Filing a statement of concern also allows a directly affected party to appeal any decision to the Environmental Appeals Board.

Thus the first step we need to do is PROMPTLY write to Neil Hollands, Director of Approvals expressing your concern and asking that it be treated like an approval. Please see letter template provided. Please feel free to add your own personal concerns or adjust to reflect your proximity. NUMBERS DO COUNT! Please have each member of your household send an individual letter. Please send a copy of this letter to our County, and other parties provided in the Letter Writing section of the website.

 

Thank you for volunteering your time to this letter writing. The time you invest here will be well spent!

It always amazes me what a dedicated group of volunteers can accomplish!

With Sincere Gratitude,

Patricia Fish
Chairperson