Jackson – The Amador County Board of Supervisors voted 3-1 on Tuesday to approve a request to allow hauling outside the current Jackson Valley Quarry Use Permit limitations. According to a memo from Planner Nathan Lishman, this will allow the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers (USACE) to “load and haul (using their private contractor) pre-processed/stockpiled material from the Jackson Valley Quarry on Saturdays from 6 am to 6 pm.” Material will be hauled to the American and Feather Rivers to be used in current Army Corp erosion control projects. The request was made by the USACE in order to complete these projects “in advance of winter salmon runs.” Jeff Welch of George Reed, Inc. represented his company in the discussion. He said the expansion shouldn’t have much additional impact. Lishman said the request “will not trigger the need for George Reed. Inc. to seek any additional exceptions to their Use Permit.” Supervisor Richard Forster, who represents District 2 in which the quarry is located, said he regularly receives complaints from residents who don’t like the truck traffic, noise and dust created by quarry operations. Forster was adamant about not allowing expanded work hours that could help contribute to “weekend traffic.” During public comment, Bill May thanked Forster for his position, saying “Jackson Valley residents feel they’re being dumped on.” In the past, residents who live adjacent to the quarry have complained of potholes in the roads, noise disturbances and flying debris. This is not the first request by George Reed, Inc. for an expansion of hours. In August of 2008, the board reluctantly approved emergency status in order to bypass CEQA requirements and expand quarry operations. The move was urged by Governor Schwarzenegger in order to help provide materials for the continuing construction and repair of the Sacramento Delta. According to quarry representatives, the emergency status would be ongoing depending on what provisions are needed in the ongoing repairs of Delta levies. Supervisor Ted Novelli said he was OK with the latest request, but said he understood Forster’s position because he “gets phone calls on this” from his constituents. The board approved the request 3-1, with Forster against. Extended haul days will take place from the time of approval through January 16, 2010. Supervisor John Plasse was absent from the meeting. Story by Alex Lane This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it