During a recent government meeting, a resident from Newberry Springs voiced strong opposition to the proposed BMT Mineola solar project, highlighting concerns over health and legal implications. The resident cited multiple violations related to the project that have allegedly been overlooked by land use services and the planning commission.

In a letter sent to board members, the resident detailed the carcinogenic risks associated with silica exposure linked to the solar project, urging the board to reject the proposal in accordance with legal obligations to protect public health. The speaker warned that failure to act could have lasting repercussions for the board members, suggesting that political pressure from Governor Gavin Newsom to expedite solar development should not override their responsibility to the community.

The resident emphasized that the county's citizens are the priority, asserting that the board has a fiduciary duty to safeguard the well-being of families and homes against potential harm from the increasing number of solar developments in the area. The passionate plea underscores the ongoing tension between renewable energy initiatives and local community concerns regarding health and environmental impacts.