Letter was full of “alternative facts”
The recent letter from Christina Zaccone expressing disappointment in the Environmental Hearing Board’s decision to protect Kent Run in Ryerson Station State Park from being undermined by the Bailey Mine is full of “alternative facts.”
First, this decision does not revoke a permit that was issued two years ago. Instead, it amends a permit that was granted right before Christmas, after significant political lobbying from the company. Even so, the issued permit from a few years ago did not authorize mining under Kent Run. Consol has never had permission to longwall under Kent Run, they just acted like they did. The court’s decision prevents Consol from mining within 100 feet of Kent Run and still allows for all other permitted mining within the Bailey Mine East Expansion.
Second, the Environmental Hearing Board is a well-respected court with judges that have been appointed by both Republican and Democratic governors in the past. The judge on this case was actually appointed by industry-friendly Tom Corbett and confirmed by a Republican-controlled Senate.
Lastly, the work to protect these streams in and around the park is being led by the Center for Coalfield Justice (CCJ). They are rooted in the community, with members like me who have lived in Greene County their whole lives and enjoy recreation at Ryerson. That “vocal minority” is larger than you think. There are thousands of people who support the work of CCJ and the Sierra Club living next door to you, attending church with you, and checking out at the grocery store with you. Clean air and water are more popular than you think.
Keith Fullerton
Waynesburg