Dear editor,
It is important that residents attend the Public Hearing for the Renewal of Shay 1 Mine Permits held at the Macoupin County Courthouse, 201 E. Main St. Carlinville, IL 62626 at 5:30 PM on Thursday, December 12, 2019. This meeting covers the renewal of Permits No. 56, 209, 265, 291, and 419 as requested by Macoupin Energy, LLC. Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Office of Mines and Minerals, Land Reclamation Division will collect written and oral statements and other relevant information pertaining to the 5-year renewal of these permits.
At the Informal Conference held on November 6, 2019, there were concerns expressed as to the financial stability of Foresight Energy LP, who is the primary owner of Shay 1 Mine. The outcome from Foresight Energy declaring bankruptcy is of major importance to the community. RDA-5 and RDA-6 will remain in place forever with a high-hazard dam classification. The question remains as to who will cover the costs of dam inspections and monitoring for the future.
Please attend this meeting and help work on safe, healthy, and beneficial outcomes for the community.
Thank you,
Mary Ellen DeClue