The Union County Commission in Florida voted unanimously March 21 to put a one-year moratorium on mining applications. However, the matter has to be approved on a second vote in order to take effect.
HPS II, which is proposing a phosphate rock mine for Union and Bradford Counties in the state, told Green Markets, that it looks forward to working with the Union County Commission regarding the proposed project. The company said it understands the concerns being voiced in Union County, and will continue their due diligence in working with the county towards a resolution.
In Bradford County, HPS said the process continues to move forward. Indeed, a town hall meeting in that county held March 16 was generally regarded as supportive compared to the opposition that has arose in Union County.
HPS II, (formerly known as HPPS Enterprises LLC, GM March 11, p. 13) is composed of four family-owned landowners in the two counties.