By Peter Biello
Wilmington, NC – Area residents met in Hampstead last night to voice concerns over a cement plant proposed for New Hanover County.
Titan Cement has made tentative plans to build a cement plant on the banks of the Cape Fear River in Castle Hayne.
Cement plants typically burn coal to make the cement and release greenhouse gases as a result. The proposed site is within five miles of three elementary schools.
Pediatrician Eddie Horger says mercury released by the plant threatens those children.
"And I don't know if I was raising a family if I'd want to come to a place where there was a cement kiln here polluting the area with mercury."
Many residents are concerned about the effect of the plant on the Castle Hayne Aquifer. Earla Pope lives in Wrightsboro.
"Once the underground aquifer gets compromised, then saltwater intrusion starts, and it's overwith," she says. "And definitely this is a dirty industry that we don't need here."
Last month New Hanover County Commissioners voted to offer a $4.2 million incentive package to Titan Cement, citing the need for the jobs and the tax revenue the company would bring.
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