Plainfield mayor opposes quarry expansion citing community air quality and safety concerns

In a tense and emotionally charged Will County Board meeting on March 20, 2025, community members voiced their concerns over a proposed quarry expansion that could significantly impact local quality of life. The atmosphere was thick with apprehension as residents, including Mayor John Arguellis of Plainfield, passionately argued against the project, citing potential air and water quality issues, increased traffic, and the overall well-being of families living nearby.

Mayor Arguellis emphasized the importance of considering the voices of residents who would be directly affected by the quarry's operations. He recalled a time when quarries were typically located far from homes and schools, questioning why standards should differ today. “This is their county, not ours. It’s their homes, not ours,” he stated, urging board members to respect the opinions of those who live in the area. He pointed out that the proposed site is in close proximity to hundreds of homes and a school, raising serious concerns about the health and safety of children.

The mayor also highlighted the lack of compelling reasons to support the quarry expansion, noting that it would not bring significant economic benefits to the county. “There is no great economic benefit to the county, no tax revenue, no infrastructure improvements, no job creation,” he argued, suggesting that the land could be better utilized for purposes that align more closely with community needs.

As the meeting progressed, other residents echoed similar sentiments, expressing fears about the potential for increased pollution and traffic congestion. Matthew Matta, a local real estate broker, shared his personal story of moving to Bolingbrook for its quality of life, emphasizing that the expansion would jeopardize the very reasons families chose to live in the area.

The board members were reminded of their responsibility to listen to their constituents, with calls to prioritize community welfare over development interests. As the meeting drew to a close, the weight of the residents' concerns lingered in the air, leaving board members with a critical decision ahead—one that could shape the future of their community for years to come.