Letters

East Hampton Town’s response and subsequent filing of an injunction to stop the further drilling of a sand mine, to include a lake, in the middle of a long established residential, not commercial, neighborhood, or designated commercial parcel, for that matter, is to be commended [“East Hampton Files Suit Over Mine That Would Create An Artificial ‘Lake’ Of Exposed Groundwater,” 27east.com, June 26]. Hurrah to the town for taking a fierce stance against both the bad handling of this sand mine’s operational procedures and history by the State Department of Environmental Conservation, and the current mine owner, Patrick Bistrian Jr. Inc., owner of Sand Highway LLC.

The people have spoken and have been heard, above the interests of one wealthy local mining company that is used to getting its way. Why would the safety of our townspeople and the drinking water not come first, anyway? It always must. And now it is, finally.

Protecting our sole-source aquifer must prevail. This sand mine must not continue mining carte blanche, to all of our detriment. It’s contribution to the inevitable groundwater pollution alone is reason to end it’s reign. The interference with the safety and quality of life of the people and children and wildlife and family pets who live here must certainly be stopped.

This huge step in the process is in the courts now as the right step has been taken. We applaud the town for stepping up for all of our water, all of our health, and all of our safety, and for protecting the precious source of life out here in the town we love — the water. Without it, we are no longer.

Nanci LaGarenne

East Hampton