Huger's Fight Against Sand Mining: A Community's Struggle
Residents Feel Betrayed by Secret Deal
In Huger, a small rural community, residents are up in arms over a proposed 140-acre sand mine project by Cedar Hill Acquisition LLC. The locals remember the problems caused by the Donmar Sand Mine, which opened in 2017, bringing noise, dust, and heavy truck traffic.
When the county board denied the permit, residents thought they had won. But then, Cedar Hill took the county to court. The county council recently agreed to a secret deal, allowing the mine to open. This has left the community feeling betrayed and frustrated.
Mine Details and Environmental Concerns
The mine's purpose is to provide fill material for infrastructure projects. It will be:
- 140 acres in size
- Up to 25 feet deep
- 50-foot buffer zones around wetlands
- 100-foot buffer between the mine and nearby homes
The mine will operate:
- 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays
- Occasional weekend and nighttime work
- 50 to 150 dump truck trips per day
After 10-15 years, the mine will be reclaimed and turned into a lake with wildlife habitat.
Who's Behind the Project?
The property is part of Cedar Hill Plantation, one of the largest privately-owned plantations in the area. Cedar Hill Acquisition LLC bought the property in 2021 for $22.3 million. The company is connected to Ben Navarro, a local businessman and CEO of Beemok Capital LLC. Navarro is also involved in other major projects, like the Union Pier Terminal development.
Residents' Concerns
Residents are worried about the impact on their quality of life. They have seen how mines can:
- Disrupt daily lives
- Harm the environment
- Bring noise, dust, and traffic
They also fear the long-term effects on their community, as mines can leave behind land that is difficult to use for other purposes.
The Donmar Sand Mine: A Lesson from the Past
The Donmar Sand Mine, which opened in 2017, has been a source of contention. The mine expanded despite opposition from locals. The company eventually agreed to pay for some community projects, but residents say the mine has not lived up to its promises.
Community Outcry and Future Plans
At a recent county council meeting, residents pleaded with leaders not to settle with Cedar Hill Acquisition. They argued that mines have not brought any benefits to Huger, instead harming the environment and making life worse for the community. They feel that the county's decision is a "slap in the face" to the Huger community.
The fight is not over. Residents plan to continue their opposition to the mine. They hope to raise awareness about the issues and push for better protections for their community. They believe that sand mining is not appropriate for their area and that the county should listen to their concerns.
