SHINE — Support and opposition to the controversial “pit-to-pier” gravel project planned on Hood Canal south of Shine continues to grind forward.
Two Kitsap County commissioners this week expressed concern about the plan by Fred Hill Materials Inc.
Separately, the state’s largest labor union voiced its support for the project, which includes a four-mile rock conveyor and an 1,100-foot pier at which quarry products would be loaded onto ships and barges.
At a forum Tuesday night, Kitsap Commissioners Chris Endressen, a Democrat, and Patty Lent, a Republican, were asked where they stand on the proposal.
The Kitsap County forum was hosted by the West Sound Conservation Council, which opposes pit-to-pier.
Both commissioners stated they oppose the project, but later refined their positions in interviews with reporters.
Endressen told Peninsula Daily News on Thursday that she doesn’t like the idea of the 1,100-foot pier south of the Hood Canal Bridge.
She said she is in support of expanded gravel mining operations, however.
Lent could not be reached for comment Thursday.
She told the Bremerton Sun on Wednesday that she wants more information on the project before forming a final opinion.
The third Kitsap County commissioner, Jan Angel, a Republican, was not at the forum.
Decision-making process
Kitsap commissioners aren’t involved in the decision-making process for the pit-to-pier project.
Jefferson County commissioners and state and federal agencies will consider final approval and issue permits for the pier and conveyor that connects it to Fred Hill’s Shine Pit.
Meanwhile, numerous labor organizations have expressed their approval of Fred Hill’s plans.
The Washington State Labor Council is the latest to support the project, council spokesman Davis Groves said Thursday.
The move continues a growing rift dividing labor from their traditional party of support, Democrats.
