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Obey Envionmental Laws

To the Editor:

The Northwest Herald recently applauded the gravel pits of McHenry County.

The story pointed out the positive aspects for jobs and our economy. Gravel is an abundant natural resource, and is used and enjoyed by everyone.

There are many other industrial and chemical plants that keep our communities financially viable.

With a class action lawsuit on behalf of people in McCullom Lake who developed a rare form of brain cancer, one cannot help but plead with industry to operate responsibly, with a conscience, no matter what the costs. The price of human life is way too much to pay for.

If environmental laws are broken, the health and well-being of the people in those communities are at risk.

Why is it not our elected officials' responsibilities to follow up with Environmental Protection Agency reports? When will the elevated levels of cancer and other diseases begin to stir interest in trying to clean up the water and air?

McHenry County has a grade of D minus in air quality from the Environmental Protection Agency.

I think the industries, politicians and people of this community can do so much better.

And to those companies that are environmentally conscious, thank you.

Suzanne Cannon
Woodstock

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