The Clay County Commission Business Session held on August 28, 2025, addressed significant community concerns regarding the operations of the I Decker Quarry in Mosby, Missouri. The meeting featured multiple residents voicing their frustrations about road conditions, safety issues, and the perceived lack of oversight regarding the quarry's activities.
The session began with a resident highlighting the deteriorating state of roads leading to the quarry, noting that similar issues plague quarries across the state. This resident expressed concern over the enforcement of ordinances passed by the city of Mosby, questioning whether Clay County would hold the quarry accountable for compliance.
Dave Thomas, another local resident, criticized the oversight plan created by Mosby, stating that while it appeared comprehensive, the city lacked concrete answers on its execution. He emphasized the need for effective governmental oversight to ensure that businesses, including the quarry, adhere to regulations that protect community interests.
Pam Smith, a resident of Cameron Road, expressed her anger and frustration, stating that the quarry's operations have negatively impacted her quality of life and property value. She called for the commission to take action, questioning the effectiveness of the local government in addressing the ongoing issues related to dust, traffic, and safety.
In response to the residents' concerns, Jim Bowers, representing I Decker Quarry, defended the quarry's operations, asserting that they are compliant with federal, state, and local regulations. He detailed the inspections conducted by various regulatory bodies, including the Mine Safety and Health Administration and the Missouri Mining Commission, which found no violations. Bowers also mentioned the installation of seismographs to monitor blasting activities, claiming that the quarry operates within safe limits.
The meeting concluded with a call for continued dialogue between the residents and the commission, emphasizing the importance of accountability and oversight in addressing the community's concerns. The commission acknowledged the residents' frustrations and committed to further discussions on the matter, highlighting the need for collaboration to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.