By Loretta - The Stop the Crusher meeting on Saturday had an amazing turnout. We greatly appreciate everyone's support in addressing this community-wide concern.

The issue of excessive truck traffic on S. Fannin, making it unsafe for drivers and damaging the road and shoulders, is not sufficient to persuade the TCEQ to deny a permit for the Crushing plant. However, we have identified several strategies that might sway the TCEQ to deny the permit:

1. It is crucial for residents to voice their concerns at the August 1, TCEQ hearing, particularly regarding the adverse effects of dust on individuals with COPD, Asthma, Emphysema, Heart Diseases, Cancer, and other health conditions.

2. We need a strong community presence at the August 1 TCEQ hearing. We urge as many residents as possible to attend to demonstrate our united front in preserving our community's well-being and property values. The situation in Gunter and other Texas communities should serve as a wake-up call for us. The placement of one crushing plant will likely attract others.

3. Starr Water is unlikely to be able to fulfill the water requirements necessary for legally mandated dust remediation, which could serve as a significant obstacle.

4. The violation of the 440-yard requirement to the nearest house, church, etc., is another issue that should be emphasized. (Although, this  could potentially be addressed if the plant owner relocates the operations to a different area of the property.)

5. Sherman could restrict truck traffic from S. Fannin onto Dripping Springs.  Denison is already enforcing the “No Trucks” ordinance on the North end of S. Fannin. This Sherman restriction is a long shot as it wouldn’t be a quick ask from Sherman. Additionally, there might be another exit possible from another side of the property.

In addition to the above, we have identified the following action items:

1. We need to form a committee of perhaps 5-10 residents that will meet and communicate regularly to collate and organize all of the information gathering, research, ideas, speakers, media, etc. If you would like to volunteer, please reach out to Michele S., Loretta R., Peggy G., or Melissa W. (OR VISIT THE TRACC Group).

2. Peggy G. volunteered to spearhead the research on pertinent matters. We are seeking additional volunteers to join the Research Committee.

3. We’ll need a few volunteers for an information committee to collect, organize, share and disseminate information.

4. Michele S. is proactively working on a press release to extend our reach to a wider audience.

5. Michele S. also actively pursuing the creation of yard signs. If you have any contacts that could assist with this, please let us know.

6. We need to engage the entire community and emphasize that this is not just an issue outside the city limits. We must enhance our presence on social media, TV, and through signs and flyers across all areas of Denison.

7. It is essential to compile a list of residents willing and able to speak at the TCEQ hearing and ensure their participation.

8. We need to gather more specific information on what will be permitted at the TCEQ hearing (Michele may have a resource for this). Can we present data charts, wind charts, and other factual evidence to highlight violations by similar plants and non-compliance with pollution controls?

9. Are demographics a consideration for the TCEQ? Denison has a larger population of uninsured residents, individuals over 65, disabled individuals, and veterans, and is underserved by primary care physicians. Additionally, it has a lower median income than other areas in Texas and the United States as a whole (according to the 2020 Census). Could the placement of these plants in lower-income areas be considered economic discrimination?

All ideas, volunteers, and willing speakers are welcome.  Thanks all!