According to an online report, the ongoing fight to halt a quarry under construction in Belle Mina, Limestone County, may soon escalate to federal court. On November 22, the Southern Environmental Law Center (SELC) issued a 60-day notice of intent to sue to outgoing U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland and the quarry developers. The SELC represents New Beginnings Covenant Ministries, Belle Mina Methodist Church, and the Alabama Rivers Alliance.
Legal battle in state and federal courts
New Beginnings Covenant Ministries and Belle Mina Methodist Church are already pursuing legal action against quarry developers Stoned, LLC, and Grayson Carter and Son Contracting in Limestone County Circuit Court. Although a request for a temporary injunction to halt construction was recently denied, a hearing is scheduled for February. Meanwhile, the SELC’s federal lawsuit claims the quarry’s construction and operations violate the Endangered Species Act (ESA) by threatening endangered species in nearby Limestone Creek.
Environmental and community concerns
The SELC’s letter argues the quarry threatens the habitat of three endangered snail species—armored snail, slender campeloma, and Anthony’s river snail—and cites the developers’ lack of an Incidental Take Permit. Additional concerns from residents and organizations include dust-related health risks, water contamination, and damage to homes in Belle Mina, a majority-minority community. Auburn University also raised alarms over potential harm to its nearby experiment station, while the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and EPA expressed concerns during the permitting process.
Developers’ response and community impact
Despite the concerns, Grayson Carter and Son Contracting representatives have stated their commitment to being a “good neighbor,” emphasizing the jobs and tax revenue the quarry would bring to Limestone County. However, community members remain skeptical, citing risks to public health, property values, and the environment. Efforts to reach the developers for comment have been unsuccessful.
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