Public meeting for PolyMet sparks debate

AURORA - PolyMet's proposed copper mine near Hoyt Lakes is moving towards reality.

Both supporters and opponents of the precious metals mine gathered Wednesday nigth at a public meeting hosted by the U.S Army Corps of Engineers and the Minnesota DNR.

They're voicing opinions as part of the environmental impact statement process for the 600 million dollar project.

Every letter and every word counts in PolyMet's environmental impact statement process.

So much so, that the DNR stationed stenographers to record statements from those attending Wednesday's meeting.

"It's the first time we've done that at the DNR," said Colleen Coyne, communications director for the MN DNR. "The reason we're using that process is because of the anticipated crowd. Rather than selecting a few dozen people to speak, we wanted to gather as many comments as possible."

Those comments ranged from support of the mine and the 400 jobs it could bring to the Range to overwhelming concern for the environment.

"The mine is gonna be within the Superior National Forest," said mine opponent, Lanne Palcich. "They're digging up wetlands, wetlands when you dig them up them up, release carbon... you're gonna end up with huge, huge waste rock piles. I don't think this is even economically sustainable."

Supporters of Minnesota's first copper mine are confident both the DNR and PolyMet have done their research and are equipped to protect the area's natural habitat.

"We've been waiting a long time, since 2001 as a matter of fact, for this project to begin operations so we're pretty excited that this may be the last step in the process," said Hoyt Lakes Mayor, Marlene Pospeck.

"This is very exciting," said President and CEO of PolyMet. "A milestone, very exciting night."

Every comment made must be addressed by the DNR in their final environmental impact statement.

Based on the nature of those comments, the EIS could change significantly.

And public input is exactly what the DNR wants.

"In the end, that's what strengthens the document," said Coyne. "We can't know everything. We rely on the public to provide the materials, the technical comments, the thoughts and opinions that will help shape the integrity of that final document."

Another public meeting will take place Thursday night in Blaine.

The public comment period for PolyMet’s environmental impact statement continues until February 3rd.

If you would like to comment on the proposed copper mine, you can do so at the Minnesota DNR’s website:

www.dnr.state.mn.us