Montanore Positive Action Committee sends letter to Bullock

An open letter from the Montanore Positive Action Committee to newly elected Gov. Steve Bullock:

Gov. Bullock,

We would like to introduce you to the Montanore Positive Action Committee (MPAC). This informal association of individuals and business leaders from Lincoln County have come together to support the Montanore Project. This project is a proposed underground copper/silver mine that will bring important jobs to this community. The project has been delayed, and we are concerned about future delays.

MPAC started working on this issue almost two years ago with the objective of having a positive impact on the permitting schedule for the project. It was and remains our intent to be “positive” in our approach to assist and encourage the federal and state agencies to get through the permitting process. Over the years, we have watched the schedule continue to slip, delaying project approval.

During 2011 MPAC organized two rallies for the project in this community and have met on several occasions with USFS representatives. Our approach is to work positively with the agencies but to also ensure the permitting process continues to advance forward. This project was fully permitted in 1993 and remains permitted through the State’s Hardrock Operating Permit 00150.

As you well understand, jobs are critically important to our community and rural Montana communities are struggling. Libby is no different and depends on the high paying jobs from natural resource development. Lincoln County continues to have one of the highest unemployment rates in the state.

MPAC respectfully requests your support of the review process and ensure the state agencies do everything to complete this process in 2013. We appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to working with you on this very important issue for our community.

— Montanore Positive 

Action Committee

Jeff Gruber

Chuck  and Charlotte Woods

Frank and Penny Kyes

Kendra Haugen

Alvin Benitz