Last Monday 1/12/15, the Town of Bernalillo Town Council approved Ordinance 286 annexing the Fisher Sand and Gravel site into the Town borders. They provided an M-1 Zoning designation with a conditional permit allowing mining of sand and gravel for a period of 7 years. Fisher in return will donate 7 acres of land for ESCAFCA to build a detention pond to provide additional flood control for the Town. Fisher will also provide excavation for that portion of the property. Upon completion of the removal of all saleable material or 7 years whichever comes first, Fisher will reclaim the site for commercial development and are required to provide a performance bond to ensure completion within 1 additional year.
Although ESCA did not accomplish all the recommendations submitted to all parties involved, we did establish an end date and many of our requests were incorporated into the Ordinance. The original application by Fisher had no end date. We were able to negotiate from 15 years to 7 years but could not get the permit to 5 years. Hours of operation as per our request are 7am-5pm Monday-Friday, no possibility of an asphalt plant, metering of water usage, adequate performance bonding and several other concerns which we will continue to follow to ensure compliance.
It is important to stay on top off the operation to make sure they follow the conditions of the temporary permit. Hopefully, our efforts will also be a precedent for any future mining activity in our community. ESCA is continuing its work to put more stringent Governmental regulations regarding zoning and mining in place and is working closely with our Political Representatives at the County and State levels.We must all be vigilant and active to protect our Community. As we proceed ,we will keep you informed.