To the editor:
A few years ago, I had never heard of a corporation called Enviva. I’ve learned a lot since then. I learned that they plan to put up a plant with lots of smokestacks north of Hamlet and Dobbins Heights, just about a mile down the road from my home. I learned that the plant will fill the air with dust and pollutants that can make people sick.
I’ve also learned that wood pellet plants, like the one that Enviva wants to bring to town, have a history of fires and explosions. In fact, one of Enviva’s plants caught fire just a few weeks ago in Florida. Workers had to be treated for smoke inhalation.
We do need jobs in Richmond County. Good, clean, safe jobs. We shouldn’t be forced to choose between good jobs and clean air.
That’s why I’ve asked the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality to hold a public hearing on this facility, before it’s too late. Because this is too big of a decision to be made without hearing from the people who are going to be affected. Let’s make sure that every precaution is going to be taken to protect our health, so that we can all live long, happy lives.
Debra David
Treasurer, Concerned Citizens of Richmond County