2007-04-16_REVISION - M1977247 (5)

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• Realtors are warning that an operating quarry will lower real estate values & hurt resale potential. • Lower property values will create a lower tax base which will negatively impact the fire district and therefore fire protection for the residents because the district is funded directly from property taxes. • Widespread dust, smoke & airborne pollutants from mine operations. • Thick dust clouds from constant heavy hauling of material from quarry on dirt mine access road. • Dust clouds and pollutants from blasting, crushing and hauling blown throughout the valley by Coaldale's frequent high winds. • Excessive noise pollution from many aspects of mining operation. • Periodic blasting and the potential for well and structural damage to _ residences adjoining and near the quarry. Unpredictable damage to our fragile water table from deep blasting, with very possible damage and tainting of existing water wells. Holcim Inc. is the EPA's worst polluter in Fremont County. The Coaldale Valley is the most beautiful valley in Fremont County and one of the most beautiful in the State of Colorado. Bighorn Sheep Canyon is one of the most beautiful canyons in the United States. There are other places to obtain gypsum. The profits for obtaining gypsum in Coaldale were always small. If Holcim is not allowed to re-open the mine they lose nothing but some possible small future profit. If Coaldale's beauty and tranquility are destroyed, the residents, the community, the county, the state and the world will lose far more in other resources and for longer than thirty two years and the foreseeable future. Please, please reject any application for permits to reopen the Coaldale Quarry, especially by an international mining giant like Holcim. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Robert L. Parker Property owner Business owner Board member, Deer Mountain Fire Protection District Local firefighter Resident