Scott asks residents to learn more about proposed silica smelter

November 22, 2017

Image from the HiTest Silicon-HiTest Sands website

Idaho District 1 Representative Heather Scott recently sent her Bonner County constituents a letter alerting them to plans by a Canadian corporation to establish a silica smelter plant on land straddling the Bonner County, Idaho, and Pend Oreille County, Washington, between Oldtown and Newport, and encouraging those interested to a public meeting to be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday, November 29, in Newport. Idaho District 1 Representative Heather Scott "I wanted to make you aware of the plans under way for HiTest Silicon-HiTest Sands, http://hitestsand.com, a Canadian corporation, to locate a large silica smelter plant adjacent to the towns of Oldtown, Idaho, and Newport, Washington," she wrote November 18. "Various government entities including the State of Washington and Pend Oreille County have been actively promoting this venture. I believe Bonner County residents have not been adequately included in many of these discussions. This project has the possibility of significant impacts to our rural area, and Bonner County residents will directly feel the effects, both good and bad, from this proposed plant. "I fully understand the importance of good paying jobs in our area but also understand that environmental, communal, cultural and economic safeguards must not be overlooked in a zealous pursuit to land new businesses to our area. I believe the best and most proper way to address all concerns would be through the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA) as opposed to fast-tracking it through the Washington State Environmental Protection Act (SEPA) process. "I encourage you to educate yourselves on this topic, the company and the players involved, and understand how it can potentially impact you, your family and your communities. Know where your elected officials and agencies involved at all levels stand on this issue and let them know what you think. "I have set up a page at my website, http://repheatherscott.com/smelter/, where you can find the links to current information about the project and groups involved. It also includes the contact information for state, county, city government agencies you may want to contact with your concerns. "There will be an important public meeting held on the smelter November 29th at 6:00pm at the Newport Sadie Halstead Middle School, S331 Calispel Road, Newport, Washington. "HiTest Sands representatives will be there to answer questions and take comments. I encourage you to attend and become informed so you can provide input when you find it necessary. "Thank you for being educated and engaged so you are not overlooked and unheard."