A recent gathering within the Cochise County Flood Control district raised significant worries about the contentious sewage project in Bisbee. Attendees pointed out the project’s lack of transparency and insufficient community engagement during the planning stages, which has stirred concerns among both local residents and officials.

Key speakers at the meeting criticized the project, arguing that it was initiated with inadequate research and misleading information. One speaker mentioned an interview with the director of Bisbee Public Works, who showcased visuals of the project but did not provide crucial research or impact assessments. This absence of documentation has led to skepticism regarding the project’s legitimacy and potential benefits.

There were also contradictions highlighted in the statements made by city officials about drainage quality. For instance, the mayor asserted that the discharges are safe for drinking, but a speaker contested this, referencing information from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that opposed the city’s claims. This raised further doubts about the reliability of the data supporting the project.

Concerns regarding the qualifications of individuals overseeing the project were also voiced. The county engineer, who recently replaced his predecessor, was said to lack adequate engineering expertise and familiarity with the project. This has heightened fears about the proper management and execution of the project.

Speakers noted that Bisbee has struggled with sewage issues for many years and has a documented history of non-compliance, which led to the closure of treatment plants by the EPA. This ongoing challenge has prompted community demands to suspend current projects, with numerous residents expressing their discontent through emails to the board.

In conclusion, the meeting brought to light critical community concerns surrounding the Bisbee Sewage Project, including transparency, safety, and management. As the situation evolves, it will be interesting to see how the county addresses these pressing issues and whether future decisions will adequately reflect community input.