LIVERPOOL, N.Y. (NCC News) — Community members gathered at Liverpool High School on July 24 to weigh in on Micron’s Draft Environmental Impact Statement. The 20,000-page report addresses the semiconductor project’s potential effects on air quality, wetlands, and other environmental issues.
In a news release from the New York State Governor’s Office, “…workforce development cannot come at the cost of our crucial natural resources,” said Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon.
The all-day event allowed residents to voice their concerns and ask questions, but officials did not respond.
Micron says it plans to build up four fabrication plants in the town of Clay over the next 20 years, investing around $100 billion. Syracuse resident Daniel Gremillion has several concerns about the effects the development will cause.
Gremillion said, “They don’t care about human life. All they’re focused on is money.”
The Onondaga County Office of Economic Development posted on its website that the public comment period will close on August 11, the website provides contact information for the public to submit comments. Micron said it is set to begin construction in November if it gains various state and federal approvals.
Donald Smith of the International Union of Operating Engineers says people should allow the workers finish the project before people make complaints.
“How about letting all the different services we have in the area do their jobs. That’s what they’re there for. Let them do their jobs,” Smith said.