To read the full press release including the attached letter: https://rossland.civicweb.net/document/44588
March 27, 2025
Press Release – For immediate release
City of Rossland Recommends Rejection of Record Ridge Mine Permit Application
Rossland, BC – The City of Rossland, as a participant of the Record Ridge Mining Development Review Committee (MDRC), has continued to raise significant concerns regarding the permit application for the proposed Record Ridge Mine. Due to unresolved technical, environmental, and economic concerns as presented during these meetings, the City is unable to recommend proceeding with the permit approval process at this time.
In a letter (attached) addressed to Kathie Wagar, Chair of the Record Ridge MDRC, Mayor Morel outlined several key issues that remain unaddressed by the project proponent. Among the most pressing concerns are the socioeconomic impact, transportation issues, environmental consequences, and the transparency of the company behind the project.
Key Concerns Raised
Tourism and Economic Impact: The socioeconomic assessment fail to address critical issues, including the lack of benefits to the City and potential negative impacts on the local tourism economy, particularly the Seven Summits Trail.
Transportation: Concerns about the impact of heavy truck traffic on the downtown core and the Rossland Museum and Tourist Information Centre remain unresolved.
Company Trust and Transparency: Inconsistencies in the project’s vision and communication have raised trust issues within the community.
Environmental Impact: The reduction in proposed tonnage to avoid an Environmental Assessment is concerning, and a thorough Environmental Impact Assessment is deemed necessary.
Water Usage: Unclear plans for sourcing water for mine operations amid decreasing snowpack and hot summer seasons.
Technical Issues: Unresolved technical concerns related to metal leaching, asbestos characterization, and baseline data for surface and groundwater.
Policy Issues: Interpretation of policy regarding the Environmental Assessment Act suggests the project exceeds the production capacity threshold, necessitating a review under the Act.
Due to these outstanding concerns, the City of Rossland has formally recommended to the MDRC that the permit application not be approved until all identified issues are fully resolved.
“The well-being of our community and environment must come first,” said Mayor Morel on behalf of the Rossland City Council. “Until we receive clear, satisfactory responses to these concerns, we cannot support moving forward with this application.”
The City of Rossland urges all relevant regulatory bodies to take these concerns into serious consideration before making any final decisions on the Record Ridge Mine proposal.
For further information:
Email Mayor Morel: mayor@rossland.ca
