09/18/2007 (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

(Clerk's Note: The Chairman called a recess at 12:48 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 1:04 p.m., with all members present). Dr. Cox wondered about the capacity of the marsh to filter large amounts of brine. He urged the Board to consider future alternatives for the brine disposal, and felt that ultimately, County residents would be drinking purified seawater and returning the brine to the ocean. Dr. Baker voiced several objections to the project. He felt that the Board needed additional workshop meetings, more time, more research, and further discussion. He reiterated Dr. Cox's viewpoint of having the County research alternative methods for brine disposal. Dr. Gilmore expressed concerns about the adequacy of the studies that had been done. He found many things left out of the Environmental Impact Statement, and cautioned the Commissioners to obtain more information. Commissioner Davis posed questions to Director Olson about obtaining an environmental footprint, and if the project would affect the shoreline elevation. Vice Chair Bowden thanked Director Olson for the intense education she got, and wanted the scientific community to remain involved in the project. She reiterated that Carolyn Ginn and she were opposed to mitigation on the Lost Tree Islands. Director Olson declared that staff wants the scientific community to be part of the ongoing process. He agreed with Dr. Gilmore that more information must be obtained, but stated that as of this point, staff has done their best. September 18, 2007 47