HomeMy WebLinkAbout952093.tiff •
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August 14, 1995 ,' Q
Organ cs
Weld County Commissioners Office
P.O. Box 758
Greeley, CO 80632
Attn: Commissioner Barbara Kirkmeyer cm,ausicamff
Commissioner Dale Hall _(Chair) FATC1.1 Etairrr
Commissioner Connie Ha> ert 6350wac76
Commissioner Bill Weber ra*ancoeuu
970-454-3492
Commissioner George Baser W07761644
FAX 970.454-3232
Re: A-1 Organids, USR / CDC 1059 [tar Axnsaa Fancy
6569 Hwy 93
P' C[xa n CO 80403
Dear Commissioners, - - 30J-384-9232
FAX 303.344-9259
Our application is to be scheduled for hearing before you
soon. Since our application is somewhat unique, I felt "c`ff„FK "
that the commission as a group, or individually if you azOQE""HAM)
" Ate`
prefer would be interested in viewing one or all of our N"c0
80
237
800.776.I644
operations to better educate yourselves on what it is we
do, the various materials we process, how we process them,
how we operate the facilities, etc. .
I would like to coordinate an unguided tour of the facility
under review, plus any of our other 'facilities that you
would like to see in operation. I would encourage you to
not only Visit our Highway 66 Facility, but also our Lost
Antlers Facility located 4 miles north of Golden on highway
93, since many of the potential materials that cbuld be
processed at the Highway 66 Facility are_ currently being
handled there.
Please contact me at (303) 384-9232 (Golden office #) , or
leave word with our corporate office in Eaton at 454-3492,
as to when you would be able to view our facilities so that
I can make arrangements .
Sincerely, •
Bob Yost
Director,. Marketing &
New Business Development
cc: Keith Schuett, Weld County Planning Department
Trevor Jiricek, Weld County Health Department
Lvwro nasal Solwrimns
•
&monk Stott
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r-xput 952093
/14 ' 95 12: 18 die eie'CC / / 71 ' " Lit PAGE . 602
WELD COUNTY PLANNING
LIND, LAWRENCE & OTTENHOFF
ATTORNEYS AT LAW AUG 9 1995„
THE LAW BUILDING 2V(A E ' V E
1011 ELEVENTH AVENUE F,
` �f
P.O.BOX 326
GREELEY,COLORADO 80632 i � � : ! �
GEORGE H.OTTENHOFF TELEPHONE
KENNETH F,LIND (970)353-2323
KIM R.LAWRENCE (970)356-9160
TELECOPIER
JEFFREY R. BURNS (970)356-1111
August 7, 1995
Weld County Department of Planning Services
1400 North 17th Avenue
Greeley, CO 80631
Attention: Keith Schuett
Re : A-1 Organics (USR-1059)
Dear Keith:
Enclosed please find a copy of a letter which we have recently
submitted to the Department of Transportation. Based upon the
information provided by Mr. Yost at the public hearing, I can now
tell you that Sekich Farms does have significant concerns with the
application, especially related to the volumes of materials and
types of materials proposed to be composted. As the volumes and
amounts as indicated in the application have been somewhat
nebulous, we believe it is important for Planning Services as well
as the Health Department again review this application in light of
the volume of finished product as well as the huge volume of raw
materials necessary. Considering the amount of other raw materials
that will have to be brought to the site for allowance of 100, 000
tons of finished product, this should raise substantial questions
on your part as well as the part of the Health Department as to the
source of these materials .
Assuming that you carefully review my letter to the Colorado
Department of Transportation, it should be very easy to determine
the very substantial and relevant concerns of the neighborhood. It
took considerable work on my part to make numbers, tonnage and
volumes fit but they now do. Briefly summarized, the finished
product is proposed to increase from 25, 000 tons to 100, 000 tons;
raw material necessary for this finished product will increase from
the current 50, 000 tons provided to a minimum of 170, 000 to 250, 000
tons . These figures are confirmed by the application materials,
Mr. Yost' s testimony and information provided by Aurora Dairy. I
am aware that Mr. Yost stated that there may have been up to 50, 000
tons of finished product on site in some years but that is not
possible . For example, we have confirmed that the Aurora Dairy has
EX h bi4- b C'.e.: Ba c fs),• OA ; UL 952 133
Weld County Department of Planning Services
August 7, 1995
Page 2
less than 4, 000 head of milking cows and calves on site at any
time. The Colorado State University Department of Animal Sciences
as well as other dairymen in the area have confirmed that a dairy
cow will produce between 60 and 80 pounds of manure on a daily
basis . Using the maximums of these figures means that 4 , 000 cows
at 80 pounds per day results in a maximum raw product of 58, 400
tons . Then, using the 60% reduction factor results in 23, 360 tons
of finished product . This does then accurately point to a
historical finished product production of 25, 000 tons per year.
Now, the proposal is to have 100, 000 tons of finished product per
year which is the 300% increase . More eye opening is the need for
the increase in raw materials which will have to be trucked to site
and not merely delivered "from across the road" . At a bare
minimum, it will be necessary to have 170, 000 tons of raw material
to as much as 250, 000 tons of raw material . As the dairy has only
provided 50, 000 tons of raw material, we have a minimum increase of
120, 000 tons to an increase of 200, 000 tons . Thus, we have
anywhere from a 250% to a 400% increase in raw materials to be
delivered to the site . Clearly, in light of these figures, it is
necessary that the application be re-evaluated.
My notes from the Planning Commission hearing also indicate
that Mr. Yost indicated that for any materials other than manure
and bedding from the Aurora Dairy, it would be necessary for the
Department of Planning Services, Weld County Health Department and
the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment to approve
these materials . The Development Standards (No. 3) only indicate
that the applicant needs to notify these referenced agencies of any
new material to be composted which was not previously indicated in
the submitted special review permit . Obviously, the applicant
would not need any type of permission or approval or any type of
non-hazardous wood product, wood bi-product, yard waste, food
processing waste, other feedlot manure, municipal sewage sludge or
liquid waste.
Mr. Yost also indicated that the lease in effect between A-1
and the Salazar family required approval of both the Salazar family
(the property owners) and Aurora Dairy to allow any materials other
than manure and bedding from Aurora Dairy to be composted at the
site . Upon reviewing the application materials, the applicant has
failed to provide a copy of the subject lease. Please note that
Section 24 . 7 . 5 . 3 of the Weld County Zoning Ordinance requires the
applicant to provide a copy of a deed or legal instrument by which
the applicant has an interest in the property. In this case, the
applicant is Lamb Land, Inc . d/b/a A-1 Organics . The materials
submitted to the Planning Service Department reflect only a deed
showing ownership by the Salazar family. Thus, it is necessary
that the applicant provide a copy of the legal instrument
indicating their interest in the property. This is especially
952033 '
Weld County Department of 'Planning Services
August 7, 1995
Page 3
important in light of the comments made by Mr. Yost indicating that
the lease requires prior approval for composting other materials .
We request that you provide to us a copy of the legal instrument (s)
showing the applicant' s interest in the subject property.
Very truly yours,
LIND, CJ 'TTENHOFF
Ke n th F. Lind
KFL/cg
pc : Trevor Jiricek
Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment
Town of Mead
952033
LEND, LAWRENCE & OTTENHOFF
ATTORNEYS AT LAW
THE LAW BUILDING
1011 ELEVENTH AVENUE
P.O.BOX 326
GREELEY,COLORADO 80632
GEORGE H.OTTENHOFF TELEPHONE
KENNETH F.LIND
KIM R.LAWRENCE (970)353-2323
(970)356-9160
]EFFREY R. BURNS TELECOPIER
(970)356-1111
August 7, 1995
State of Colorado
Department of Transportation
1420 2nd Street
P .O. Box 850
Greeley, CO 80632-0850
Attention: Teresa Jones
Re : A-1 Organics, Use by Special Review
Dear Ms . Jones :
This firm has recently been retained by Sekich Farms to review
the application of A-1 Organics for a Use by Special Review,
Certificate of Designation and Site Specific Development Plan. We
have had the opportunity to review the application and other
information as submitted by A-1 Organics . We also had the
opportunity to attend a public hearing conducted on August 1, 1995
before the Planning Commission of Weld County.
Our initial review of the submitted application materials
raised numerous questions concerning vehicular traffic on Highway
66 and we have attempted to clarify volumes and numbers . We noted
that Paragraph 2 . 9 of the application did not discuss truck loads
and/or tons per day as required. In the applicant' s site
operational plan at Page 17 of the application it was then
disclosed that they intended to compost 150, 000 tons of waste on
site . We were unable to determine whether this was finished
material or raw material brought onto the site. We also contacted
Weld County Planning Services and they were unable to provide to us
clarification of the numbers or weights involved prior to the
Planning Commission hearing.
At the August 1 Planning Commission Hearing, Mr. Robert S .
Yost (representing A-i Organics) stated that he had been in contact
with you, that traffic numbers were far less than indicated, and
A-1 was going to provide additional information to you. However,
during the public hearing, Mr. Yost did provide "clarification" of
truck volumes and numbers concerning this application. As Mr. Yost
352093
had indicated that the volumes and numbers were far less than
perceived, it was our opinion that it was necessary to bring to
your attention Mr. Yost' s public comments as there seems to be some
discrepancy in the information being provided to you, the planning
department and what was provided at the public hearing.
Our concern is related to the traffic on Highway 66 as well as
the existing ingress and egress location on Highway 66 for this
facility. There are substantial safety and number concerns and I
believe the information provided in this letter will provide proof
of those concerns .
It is important for you to realize that the historical storage
and composting on this site has been limited to dairy manure and
bedding from the Aurora Dairy Farm which is located approximately
1/2 mile south of the compost site. Now, the applicant proposes to
compost additional materials (as indicated in the application)
being other feedlot manure, other non-hazardous organic matter
including municipal yard waste, wood waste, wood products and bi-
products, food processing waste, municipal sewage sludge and other
unidentified liquid wastes (the application indicates that they
intend to have on site storage of 21, 000 gallons) .
Once the type of wastes to be composted were identified, it
was then necessary to determine numbers and amounts . Again, most
of the submitted information was very nebulous and evasive,
however, Mr. Yost did provide information at the public hearing
concerning numbers and amounts .
First, it is important for you to be aware of Development
Standards concerning this operation, a copy of which is enclosed.
Please note at Paragraph 1 that the facility would be allowed to
compost no more than "100, 000finished tons of compost per year" .
Please note that this is finished product and it was necessary to
determine the amount of raw product to be brought to the site to
have 100, 000 tons of finished product .
Mr. Yost disclosed that the historical dairy manure composting
operation produced approximately 25, 000 tons of finished compost
during the past years of operation. This required delivery of
approximately 50, 000 tons of manure and bedding from the Aurora
Dairy. This information has now provided the base line data
(historical use) for us to determine future and contemplated use .
As noted, the Development Standards provide for 100, 000
finished tons of compost which is an increase of 75, 000 tons per
year of finished product . To generate 100, 000 tons of finished
compost per year, Mr. Yost indicated that it would be necessary to
have between 175, 000 and 250, 000 tons of raw material brought to
the site. As we were provided with the historical raw material
brought to the site, you can now determine that the raw material to
be brought to the site is an increase of not less than 125, 000 tons
(175, 000 minus 50, 000 historical) to as much as 200 , 000 tons
(250, 000 minus 50, 000 historical) .
I
Thus, under both scenarios of (1) removal of finished product
and (2) delivery of raw materials, there is a 300% increase in the
volume of materials to be finished as well as delivered to the
site !
These finished product volumes as well as delivered raw
material volumes are also confirmed by the A-i application. The A-
1 application indicates that there is an average reduction of
volume (and weight) of between 40% to 60% in the composting
operation depending upon the type of raw material . Again, using
the figures provided by A-1 indicate that for 100, 000 tons of
finished product, at a 40% reduction, it is necessary that 250, 000
tons of raw material be delivered to the site . If there is a
reduction of 60%, then it is necessary that 170, 000 tons of raw
material be delivered to the site. Using an average of 50%, that
means that 200, 000 tons of raw material must be brought to the
site . Again, both the finished product, raw material and percent
reduction figures provided by A-1 Organics show the massive
increase in volumes and corresponding traffic.
It is fairly simple to determine the corresponding traffic
result . Using a standard semi truck which can haul approximately
25 tons per load means that removal of 100, 000 tons of finished
product from the site will require 4, 000 semi loads. This needs to
be compared to the historical removal of 25, 000 tons of finished
product which required 1, 000 semi loads . More astounding is the
requirement for delivery of the raw materials to the site .
Delivery of 50, 000 tons of raw manure from the Aurora Diary
required 2, 000 semi loads on an annual basis . Now, for delivery of
between 170, 000 tons to 250, 000 tons of raw materials requires not
fewer than 6, 800 semi loads to as many as 10, 000 semi loads !
Needless to say, these figures show an astounding increase in
volumes and corresponding heavy truck traffic . It is especially
important to bring to your attention the fact that the historical
operation has been removal of virtually all manure produced at the
Aurora Dairy being approximately 50, 000 tons per year. This means
that the applicant intends to bring in from 120, 000 tons to 200 , 000
tons of other raw material to the site from other unidentified
sources . As delivery of these other raw materials from the other
sources require trucking to the site, this creates a substantial
impact upon Highway 66 . The applicant has always indicated that
the impact on Highway 66 is minimal ( "the Aurora Dairy is just on
the other side of Highway 66" ) , however, we are now aware of the
allowance for between 120 , 000 tons and 200 , 000 tons of additional
material that will not come from "just across the road" . This is
a very serious impact upon the highway as far as structure, use and
safety and is of a substantial concern to all highway users .
In closing, I again want to stress that the information used
in this letter were comments made by the applicant' s own
representative at a public hearing and I presume that audio tapes
of that public hearing can be made available to you to confirm this
information. However, you can also determine your own calculations
352093
based upon the 100, 000 finished tons as proposed and compare that
to the application materials provided by the applicant in relation
to the 40% to 60% reduction to create the finished product .
Very truly yours,
LIND, E CE & OT E ,F
Kenn th F. Lind
KFL/cg
Enclosure
pc : Weld County Department of Planning Services
352(93
Tv
August 10, 1995
Dear Mr. Kimmel, Chrm; Mr. Epple and Ms. Koolstra,
I am a farmers'daughter.
I was raised on a farm in North Dakota. I left after graduation from college.
On August 1,we met when A-1 Organics, the Weld County Planning Commission and the
people of Grandview Estates discussed the composting facility located 1/2 mile east of the
Estates properties.
I, personnally, would like to believe that you were somehow naive in that the reason you
gave for approving the compost facility was actually justifable by facts. What you said in
answering the Chairman with a 'yes', to my best recollection,was'I'm tired of city people
moving to the country and then trying to change how we, as farmers, make a living.' Your
reason for approving the compost facility does in no way address the concerns or legality
of what was presented that day. You sat on the Planning Commission that day with an
agenda entirely of your own making.
I am a farmer's daughter.
Let me briefly tell you again why A-1 Organics must be held accountable for their inactions.
Let's say that A-1 Organics heard that the Aurora Dairy was dumping their manure on the
Salazar property and since A-1 Organics was in the compost business for 15 years already,
that A-1 Organics saw a way to increase the amount of compost that they were already
doing. Let's assume that A-1 Organics approached the Aurora Dairy and the Salazar family
and that between the three of them, they decided that to compost all this manure would be
beneficial to all three parties envolved. Since A-1 Organics has 15 years experience behind
them, I could assume,that at that time A-1 Organics should have said to the Aurora Dairy
and the Salazar family, we must apply for a permit first. But they didn't.
Or, maybe, the Salazar family saw a way to benefit from the Aurora Dairy manure and after
talking with the Aurora Dairy, the Salazar family contacted the A-1 Organics company and
said let's do some business together that could be of benefit to all three of us. Farmers are
very industrious people so for the Salazar family to suggest such a venture would not be
uncommon. At that point, It would seem to me that it should have incumbent on A-1
Organics to say that first, they needed to apply for a permit. But they didn't.
A-1 Organics did not assume responsibility for a permit at that time, nor did they accept
responsibility for it on August 1, 1995. And neither did you.
In either case, the Salazar family was not given justice by A-1 Organics nor by the Planning
Commission members who voted'yes'to the compost facility. So I will ask you. Who is it
now that is performing the greater injustice to the Salazar family, a farm family who wants
nothing else but to make a living, the Aurora Dairy,the people of Grandview Estates,A-1
Organics or three members on the Weld County Planning Commission?
I am a farmers'daughter, and proud of it. Of all the virtues my father taught me, three stand
out in my mind above all others. "You are only as good as your word. If you learn all there is
to know and lose your common sense, you have gained nothing. Do unto to others as you
would have them do unto you."
E�Chib� >L de ; Oct ) Ci9,' i��,)PL 952093
If we, as citizens of Weld County, can expect to go before the Planning Commission, and be
heard and have our legitimate concerns addressed, then where were the three of you on
August 1, 1995? Why were we, representing Grandview Estates, not given the opportunity to
answer any questions concerning the Salazar family as a farm business? What did we, as
Grandview Estate property owners, miss that created your own personal agenda?
Best regards, p Q0
frteL
Kat n Will
cc: Weld County Department of Planning Services
Mr. Jack Epple
Ms. Marie Koolstra
Mr. Richard Kimmel, Chrm.
Ms. Shirley Camenisch
Mr. Ron Sommer
Mr. Curt Moore
Kenneth F. Lind, Attorney
Russell Anson, Attorney
Mike Schuman, Mayor of Mead
Keith Schuett,Weld County Planner
Gary West, Circuit Rider City Manager
Trevor Jiricek, Weld County Health Department
Roger Doak, Environmental Protection Specialist
Jake Salazar, Farmer
A-1 Organics
Aurora Dairy
Theresa Jones, Department of Transportation
tl/C� y e �
952093
Weld County Commissioner Dale Hall ' ^• c n
P.O.Box 758
Greeley, Co 80632 el LIT
Dear Mr Hall;
This letter is to inform you of the A-1 Organics/Salazar Family Farm Composting operation a
half mile from the residential homes in Grand View Estates. The Estates are located off Hwy
66, north of Rd 13, two miles east of Interstate 25.
My family and I have concerns regarding this operation, since it has operated without a
permit for over 5 years already. Here are some of our concerns:
• de-evaluation of my residential property as well as surrounding properties
• trucking in of`municipal solid waste' and 'food product waste'
• enlarging even more the composting site. In other words going from 20 to up to 40 acres
• MINIMAL TAX GAINS FOR THE COUNTY, compared with the adverse conditions it
would create. (In other words, compare taxes from this facility as compared to taxes
from many more homes.
• increased heavy road traffic and the effect on the roads +safety for families with children.
This area is increasing in child population.
• odors from stagnant catch ponds and also creating an environment for insect populations
My family and I certainly have no problem with the composting facility staying in Weld
County; however, it should be located on acreage away from any residential area in an
environment where pesticides and stagnating fluids and wastes do not affect the quality of life
for those people who live around it.
We are asking for your support to not support the permit application submitted by A-i
Organics under consideration. It is of great importance to me and my family and I thank you
for your consideration in this matter. Your vote against this is vital.
If you wish to discuss this wit me call me or my wife at 535-4855. We live at 103 View Ct,
Mead, Co.
Best regards
Bill Bain
C °A'l
Dara Bainki
b` f 6occesa:�9)�° ci PLi ffC� 952093
Memorandum
Date: August 3, 1995
To: Keith Schuett - Weld County Planning Department
From: Bob Yost - A-1 Organics
Subject: Hwy 66 Composting Site Capacity 4 pike.a- .^'4. Al2 .057
******************************************************************
I would like to clarify a couple of items brought forth during the
planning commission hearing held on August 1, 1995, regarding our
USE 1059 application. Please make sure this information is
included in the Commissioners' package. ,
1. Site Capacity:
There was some confusion as to the correlation between cubic yards
and tons . Following is the information I sent you on memo Al2 .056,
with some clarification;
If the site is completely covered with windrows, it will hold
approximately 75, 000 cubic yards of material at one time. If each
windrow is cycled ever, 8 weeks, the total operating capacity of
the site would be 487, 500 cubic yards per year (approximately
146, 250 tons of finished material) . NOTE: Each cubic yard of raw
material in windrows will shrink approximately 40-503 . Thus
487, 500 cubic yards of material will produce approximately 268,125
cubic yards of finished compost without allowance for an "8 week
carryover" . 268, 125 cubic yards of compost, with an average weight
of 1, 100 lbs per cubic yard will equal approximately 146, 250 tons.
We have chosen to project the sites capacity at 100, 000 finished
tons per year as a conservative figure. This would be
approximately 181, 900 cubic yards of finished material .
2. Photos of Water on Site:
Two items of note here. First, the pictures showing water and mud
in the concrete ditch were taken PRIOR to our construction of an
elevated road by the ditch to Correct the problem. The Sekich's
did contact us regarding that problem3 and we did correct it.
Another contributing factor at that :time was the delivery procedure
for raw manure used by the Dairy. At that time they were doing
more intense, short term cleaning as opposed to the on-going more
even flow cleaning they do now. This resulted in larger quantities
of manure being placed more rapidly, which contributed to the flow
1
RUG 3 '95 16:31 PAGE.002
952093
of material toward the ditch at that time.
Second, as I mentioned in the hearing, after ANY significant
moisture event, we will have puddles of water on the site. The key
is that we clean it up as quickly as possible, which we have always
done. Very shortly after the most recent heavy rain event, both
the state and county health departments visited the site. Both
verbally commented 'that it was in good condition, especially
considering the heavy rain just experienced.
3. Traffic/Vehicle Situation:
Even though highway access to State Highway 66 is the jurisdiction
of the Colorado Department of Transportation, and from what we
understand, not a land use issue as long as we abide by the DOT
regulations, I wanted to outline °the numbers I will be using for
the letter to the DOT, and to 'also emphasize the very large
positive impact that our operation has on county/state road
traffic in the immediate area. Our operation significantly
decreases the miles driven on area roads as well as highway access
events over previous manure disposal methods.
Assumptions: 100, 000 cubic yards of manure generated per year on
the average.
Spreader trucks leaving the dairy carry an average
of 25 cubic yards of manure.
End dumps hauling to the compost site haul 45 cubic
yards of manure.
Finished compost leaves the site in 45 cubic yard
loads .
Average haul distance for spreading, 6 miles one
way.
Distance from compost site access to I-25 is 4
miles.
LAND APPLICATION OF RAW MANURE:
100, 000 cy / 25 = 4, 000 trips out X 2 (returns) = 8, 000 estimated
access events per year for manure only on spreader or tandem
trucks.
If average field is 6 miles (they were going 10 miles when we began
operations) , then to dispose of the manure on fields meant 48,000
miles on county roads and highways .
2
AUG 3 '95 16:32 PRGE.003
952093
COMPOSTING OF MANURE AND SHIPMENT OF FINISHED PRODUCT:
100,000 cy / 45 2, 222 trips out of dairy X 2 (return) = 4,444
access events per year by end dumps.
100,000 cubic yards of- manure, when composted will produce
approximately 55, 000 cubic yards of finished compost . Finished
compost that is shipped via 45 yard trucks to I25, a distance of 4
miles. 55, 000 finished yards / 45 1, 222 trips into the site and
1, 222 trips out of the site for a total Of 2,444 access events on
Hwy 66 for shipment of finished material . It is 4 miles from 125
to the site entrance, therefore, shipment of finished compost will
utilize county/state roads a total of 9, 776 miles (2, 444 X 4) .
Compost Manure Disposal
Access Events: 6, 888 8, 000
Miles on County Roads: _ 9,776 miles 48, 000 miles
The reduction in miles on roads DIRECTLY impact safety, fuel usage,
air emissions from trucks, wear and tear (expense) on roads. Also,
field spreading usually accesses dirt roads, meaning that reduced
miles will result in reduced dust. The reduction in total traffic
is substantial.
Total access events when compared with prior access events is
approximately 1,000 fewer. PLEASE NOTE THAT THESE CALCULATIONS
ONLY ➢ERTAIN TO MANURE DISPOSAL AND COMPOSTING, AND DO NOT REFLECT
THE TOTAL DAIRY OPERAtION.
4. A-i Organics "reputation", and real reasons for objection:
As I mentioned during the presentation, we would be more than happy
to furnish as many references as you or the commissioners feel is
necessary to support the fact that we know what we are doing, and
have an outstanding repuation within the industry. I am sending,
along with this memo, a copy of our most recent inspection at our
Lost Antlers site for your information.
As evidenced by your staff's recommendations, the Weld County
Health Department's recommendations, and the State Health
Department' s recommendations, there are no land use or technical
issues that would reflect negatively on consideration of our
operation. In my opinion, the complaints received after the
housing development was begun were frivolous and unfounded. The
real objection is perceived impact on "property values" of
homeowners in the subdivision who are used to city life and now
find themselves in the country, where feedlots, dairies, silage
pits, fertilizer, and yes, even compost sites exist . We are all
asking where the next "objection" will occur. Will it be with
dairy, feedlot, small-farm confinement, or cow and calf operations,
or how about spreadidg of manure, spreading of commercial
fertilizer, crop dusting, or even noise and dust from normal
3
AUG 3 '95 16:33 PHGE.004
952093
fanning? While I would be the first to grant ANY landowner the
right to p rofit from his or her land to the greatest degree
legally possible, I sincerely hope that we all consider the
precedence we set when we allow urban sprawl to continue to
encroach on agriculture, and that we continue to dialogue on how to
mitigate the impact with- as little detrimental effect on the
agriculture industry, the farmer, and the homeowner.
Thank you for allowing me to "editorialize" some, I will copy you
with the letter I send to Theresa Jones as well. Please phone me
should you have any additional questions.
4
AUG 3 '95 16:34 PAGE.005
952093
STATE OF COLORADO
key Romer,GovernorPsi Shwayder,Acting Executive Director ''"`'
Dedicated to protecting and improving the health and environment of the people of ColoradoHAZARDOUS MATERIALS AND WASTE MANAGEMENT DINISMON r -
4300 Cherry Creek Dr.S. 222 5.6th wee,Room 232
Denver,Colorado 80222-1530 Grand Junction,Colorado 81503-270e Colorado��y�.,,,,.�,,.,�,,��nt
Phone l303)692-3300 Phone p031 745-7154 (� ,/� toof adPo Depnun
Fax lth
July 17, 1995 Fax D031248.7198 87ECEI Et and Environment
Bob Yost _
-1111 2 1 1995
A-1 Organics ,__
16350 WCR 76 `-"--------
Eaton, Colorado 80615
RE: 1995 Inspection -Lost Antlers Regional Composting& Recycling Facility
Jefferson County
Dear Mr. Yost:
On July 14, 1995 a representative from the Solid Waste Section of the Hazardous Materials and Waste
Management Division(the Division)inspected the above referenced facility. The purpose of the inspection was
_ to determine the compliance of the facility with the requirements set forth in the Solid Wastes Disposal Sites
and Facilities Act,CRS, 30.20-100,nAcu and with the regulations promulgated thereunder 6 CCR 1007-2(the
Regulations). -
As a result of the inspection, the Division finds that the above referenced facility is in compliance with the
Regulations. However,the following items of concern were observed during the inspection:
1.The earthen berm surrounding the liquid storage tanks is in need of repair.
2.A full dram of oil was placed on its side out of the containment structure for the AST/drum storage area.
3.Many of the postings on the electric fence which surrounds the facility were missing. Apparently,strong winds
have removed most of the signs. Secured signs,adequately spaced, must be installed along the electric fence.
These conclude the Division's comments regarding the 1905 inspection of this facility. Please notify the Division
when the aforementioned issues have been corrected.
Sincerely,
Roger Doak
Geologist
Solid Waste Section
Hcrardous Materials and Wgste Management Division
cc: K. Meitner,Jefferstl�County Planning Department
P.Saunders,Jeffers County Department of Health & Environment
file SW/JFR/LST 18 I
3
I
AUG 3 '95 16:35 PAGE.006
952093
4-00; A
August 3, 1995
Teresa Jones organ cs
Colorado Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 850 •
Greeley, CO 80632
Re: Highway 66 Composting Facility Referral cc.u,x.ono,+**
Information 6*m+rwnnx
6.103Wat7h
Emwa CO RO61 S
Dear Ms Jones, 97045+u92
&S776-1644
Per our phone conversation on August 1, 1995 I am writing FNC97R454J272
to provide you withtraffic access -and mileage information. wfAM,1U Frnm
6909 Hwy.91
It is my understanding that your jurisdiction covers access Gwm4.C$ O4o.
to Highway 66. However, I am including both access and 301.3641232
total mileage or road use information since this FN .5030m9259
correspondence will also be going to the County
Commissioners . Our operation significantly decreases the cAnnak"riaty
miles driven on area roads as well as highway access events envu ..hl „�,u'""
t4
nM7r.i
over previous manure disposal methods utilized by the • 771,,;w44
dairy. Please note that this information concerns ONLY the
MANURE HANDLING or COMPOSTING operations related to the
dairy, and not the total operations of the dairy.
Assumptions are that 100,000 cubic yards of manure is
generated per year on the average, that spreader trucks
leaving the dairy carry an average of 25 cubic yards of
manure, that end .dumps hauling to the compost site haul 45
cubic yards of manure, that finished compost leaves the
site in 45 cubic yard loads, that average haul distance
for spreading is 6 miles one way, and that the distance
from the dairy to I-25 is 4 miles.
Based on those assumptions, the following comparison can be
drawn.
LAND APPLICATION OF RAW MANURE: -
100, 000 cy / 25 = 4, 000 trips out X 2 (returns) = 8, 000
estimated access events per year for manure only on
spreader or tandem trucks.
If average field is 6 miles (they were going 10 miles when
we began operations) , then to dispose of the manure on
fields meant 48, 000 miles on county roads and highways .
COMPOSTING OF MANURE AND SHIPMENT OF FINISHED PRODUCT:
100, 000 cy / 45 = 2,222 trips out of dairy X 2 (return) _
4,444 access events per year by end dumps. SdroninndsoLSis
Tsar*Sour
y
AUG 3 '95 16:36 PRGE.007
952093
100, 000 cubic yards of manure, when composted will produce
approximately 55, 000 cubic yards of finished compost . Finished
compost that is shipped via 45 yard trucks to 125, a distance of 4
miles. 55,000 finished yards / 45 1, 222 trips into the site end
1, 222 out of the site for a total of 2,444 access events on Hwy 66
for shipment -of finished material. It is 4 miles from I25 to the
site entrance, therefore, shipment of finished compost will utilize
county/state roads a total of 9, 776 miles (2,444 X 4) .
Compost Manure Disposal
Access Events: 6, 888 8, 000
Miles on County Roads: 9,776 miles 48, 000 miles
The reduction in miles on roads and access events for this activity
DIRECTLY impacts safety, fuel usage, air emissions from trucks, and
wear and tear (expense) on roads. Also, field spreading usually
accesses dirt roads, meaning that reduced miles also will result in
reduced dust. The reduction in total traffic is substantial .
Total access events when ,compared with prior access events is
approximately 1, 000 fewer.
Should you need any additional information, please don't hesitate
to phone me at (303) 384-9232.
Sincerely, =
aiVe
Bob Yo t
Director, Marketing &-
New Business Development
cc: Keith Schuett - Weld County Planning Department
•
•
•
e
AUG 3 '95 16:37 PAGE.008
952093
.
Jeff Nissen
115 Grandview Drive
Longmont, CO 80504
July 28, 1995
Weld County Commissioner Baxter
P. 0. Box 758
Greeley, CO 80632
Dear Commissioner Baxter:
The permit application made by A-1 Organics/Salazar Family Farm Composting
operation creates many concerns for me with regard to this operation.
Some of these concerns are as follows:
---As a taxpayer of 21 years I have worked towards the goal of living
in a quality neighborhood. The devaluation of property inevitably
caused by this operation in this neighborhood is not acceptable to me.
---In actuality the local and county taxes gained by allowing this
operation to exist and expand would be minor compared to the adverse
conditions created for the neighborhood and surrounding area.
---The proposed enlargement of the composting (from approximately 20
acres to possibly 40 acres) with the addition of municipal solid waste
and food production waste would be detrimental to this area for several
reasons including increased truck traffic on Highway 66 and surrounding
roads. Additionally, the ingress and egress to the site would impede the
flow of traffic on Highway 66.
---Water in catch ponds would cause objectionable odors and create a
breeding ground for insect populations.
Such a composting facility could be approved for Weld County; it should,
however, be located away from any residential area to ensure that the
nature of the operation does not affect the quality of life for those
neighborhoods nearby.
Please do not reward A-1 Organics for operating without a license for five
years by approving this permit. Your vote against this permit application
is of the utmost importance to me.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Jeff Nissen
' 952093
July 28, 1995 4ski
Keith Schuett ,�oryanios
Weld County Department of Planning Services
1400 North 17th Avenue
Greeley, CO 80631
Re: A-i Organics Site Specific Development Plan, COt'• ATOHII
(USR-1059) EnTON1 tr.
mso WUi?6
Dear .Keith, EARN. O81 fits
970F434-MHZ
800a76-1041
I received our copy of your submittal document today. As FAx970-4s4-.1212
I reviewed it, I was made aware of a letter dated July 25,1995 to your department from the Sekich family. After I ws Artruits stein
read their letter, I felt it appropriate fox me to provide R5691119Y.93
written response to their allegations, concerns, and GOLLWN.CO+a003
general comments. I wish to state emphatically that while 30}384-9252
exchanges regarding applications of this type are often FAX 303-384-9259
emotional , and usually contain many misunderstandings that
result from complex issues and the shear number of people `"""' `"""t"`"`T'
R200 EMS H"uv""u AV'
involved, it is our intent to be reasonable and to be good o, ,r.cux¢31
neighbors. 8IX1776-1644
We too live in Weld County, and share many of the same
concerns regarding our environment as do the Sekichs . It
is not our intent to diminish any concern they have but
rather to discuss and mitigate them directly whenever
possible.
I invite you to contact The Governors Office of Energy
Conservation, Colorado Recycles, Denver Recycles, Jefferson
County Planning Department, Weld County Health Department,
Jefferson County Health Department, The Colorado Department
of Health and Environment, The City of Loveland, Coors
Brewing Company, the Office of Environmental Affairs in
Boulder, the Office of Energy Conservation in Boulder,
Aurora Dairy, Kodak, Chevron Oil Company, Meridian Oil
Company, BFI, Waste Management of Colorado, and others if
you wish regarding our integrity and operational track
record.
It is our desire to bring this application into focus and
to operate our site in a fair and reasonable manner. With
.that in mind, I will proceed with my response to the
Sekich' s letter.
1) . Our current submittal document, outlining the scope of
our proposed operation, is for the most part the same
as the original submittal document dated March 25,
1994 . We have always maintained that if we were
required to obtain a Certificate of Designation on
Environmental Soiatfoa
WELD COUNTY PL,�mu
aJUL 3. i 1995'
HELVE
07/31/95 08:53 TX/RX NO. 1408 §.802o9
3
this site, it would include the ability to expand the quantity
of non-toxic and non-hazardous organic bi-products that we
would compost . We may need these additional materials to
support the increased costs associated with permitting to new
standards and operations under those standards . It is not
uncommon for individuals who are uneducated regarding
composting or compost site operation to be concerned over
those areas unfamiliar to them. Sections 2 . 5 and 2 .13 of our
application addressed this issue specifically.
2) . Reference item #1 in Sekich letter. Our application states
that residential units exist approximately 3, 000 feet to the
west of our facility' s western border as was requested by
application documents .
3) . Reference item #2 in Sekich letter . We have no other
agreements at this time for receipt of any material other than
the Dairy's manure . We cannot, therefore, provide information
on specific materials we do not have. To allow for continued
operations consistent with our other operations and per
agreements with local and state health departments, we will
notify state and local health departments with information on
new source material prior to acceptance and processing. We
anticipate that truck access of 75 round trips per day will be
sufficient to handle the production capacity of this site.
The number and duration of vehicle traffic resulting from the
composting site is significantly less than that resulting from
random stockpiling and spreading of manure.
4) _ Reference item #3 in Sekich letter. Our drainage report
details the cross section of the berm/road structure. Our
soil information indicates that on site materials are more
than adequate for construction material . We have a one to two
foot high berm on the north of the property now (and have had
for quite some time) to protect the Sekich' s ditch from site
run off . The "manure berm" referenced was put in place to add
additional protection via absorption and containment during
the monsoon rains we experienced in March and April . This
manure was re-windrowed when the weather cleared up. As our
landscape plan indicates, the purpose of the trees to the west
and northwest corner would be to provide reasonable visual
protection. The only house that is potentially impacted by
the site is the one to the northwest. You cannot see the
windrows from the west for the most part, especially when
crops are growing. The fence line on the west side of the
site is 5 feet higher than the majority of the operating area
of the site. The main visual impact is from the oil storage
tanks (similar to those surrounding our site on the Sekich
property) . The selection of trees will take into
consideration growth rate, durability, aesthetic value, and
cost .
2
952093
07/31/95 08:53 TX/RX NO. 1408 P.003
5) . Reference item #4 in Sekich letter. The state is currently
developing fiduciary responsibility regulations for solid
waste disposal and processing facilities. When these
regulations are completed and implemented across the board to
all facilities of this type, we will comply with them.
6) . Reference item #5 in Sekich letter. The Hwy 66 operation is
not and never has been an "illegal" operation. Storage and
composting of manure has long been an accepted practice in
Weld County. It was _the opinion of the planning department
that because we "processed" the material mechanically, that
our operation site may need to be re-zoned under a Use by
Special Review. While opinions may vary as to the need for a
USR or not, it was our belief that all would be better served
if we obtained a USR. There are NO composting regulations in
effect in the state of Colorado at this time. The state
health department is preparing final draft regulations on
composting at this time. The fact that final regulations
"were just around the corner" had significant effect on delays
of finalizing our permit application. Weld County Health, and
Colorado State Health both agreed that it was both logical and
fair that we be allowed to define our facility based on fact
rather than proposed regulations. It was also their opinion
that the public' s interest regarding the dairy manure we were
composting was best served by continuation of composting
operations rather than reverting back to more volatile and
less desirable methods previously used. When it became
apparent that the final regulations were still some time away,
we proposed going ahead with the USR portion of the
application now, and proceeding with the CD portion when its
requirements were defined- After discussing this matter with
Trevor Jiricek and Roger Doak, it was recommended that, since
our application was complete enough to encompass a full CD as
is currently projected, we submit for both the USR and a CD at
the same time, with the provision that we make necessary
modifications should final CD criteria differ significantly
from our issued CD. A-1 Organics is the ONLY multiple
source composting company in Colorado who has permitted its
facilities under "un-defined" Certificate of Designation
requirements. We have done so in an effort to be responsible
and professional. We do expect that other composting
facilities be required to do the same . This application was
not a "normal application" . To deny us the right to our
livelihood, and to significantly increase the dairy's
operational expense based on such a subjective situation would
have been inappropriate.=
7) . Reference item #6 in Sekich letter. The site is consistent
with the Weld County Comprehensive Plan and surrounding area
uses as outlined in our submittal . The industrial aspects of
the site serve agriculture as outlined and are also
3
952093
07/31/95 08:53 TX/RX NO. 1408 P.004 ■
consistent, as would be an implement dealership or beet dump
for example . While it is true that a flag pole annexation
exists 1/2 mile to the west of the site, it is obvious that
this is the "town of Mead" in name only. In our opinion, the
flag pole or island annexation was initiated to circumvent
current Weld County Comprehensive Plan Policy which would not
have permitted this type of development . It is not our place
to decide the appropriateness of this annexation. However,
the Weld County Comprehensive plan specifically states
" . . . .Agricultural districts located outside of an urban growth
area or the I25 mixed use development corridor are expected to
remain predominantly agricultural . Low density single family
residential development may be permitted but IS NOT
ENCOURAGED. These rural homeowners WILL NOT have certainty
about the future character of the agricultural districts and
WILL be expected to live with those uses allowed by right and
by special review in the agricultural district . " _ (reference
pages 27-28, capitals added for emphasis) -
8) . Reference item #7 in Sekich letter. Complaints of "flies and
odors" were received in February. When flies and odors were
not found, the complaint was later stated as an esthetics
concern by a homeowner intending to build, but not yet living
in the subdivision, which clarified the true issue . In nearly
20 years of operation within view of the city of Eaton, we
have received only one formal complaint to my knowledge.
There were NO formal complaints brought to our attention for
the first 3 years of operation of this facility. Conditions
during the start up of the site were at their worst, since we
not only had to handle incoming material, but also cleaned up
an estimated 2 years accumulation of excess manure already
stockpiled on the site. Only after construction of the
subdivision was begun were complaints received. We never
received one phone call from a neighbor wishing to view,
discuss, or inquire about the site. It has been, and will
continue to be, our policy to address any LEGITIMATE concern
of our neighbors . We have had local and state health
department representatives on the site numerous times to
verify operations and the accuracy and intent of the
complaints received. Blockage of access to ditches was not
done at our instructions, but rather due to a border dispute
between land owners. Water from manure and stabilized compost
leaving the site has been consistent with that which has left
that site since it was first used for manure storage, without
prior complaint . It is interesting to note that the paper,
run off, flies, and odors from manure stored on adjacent
fields does not seem to be an issue. The process, in its
current configuration, can be verified by health department
officials and others as significantly more adequate regarding
the protection of public health and safety then "normal" waste
management procedures for products of this type .
4
•
952093
07/31/95 08:53 TX/RX N0. 1408 P.005
9) . Reference item #8 in Sekich letter. Please see previous
response.
10) . Reference item #9 in Sekich letter. The island annexation is
self explanatory. The closest functional town is Platteville.
Mead was sent a referral.
11) . Reference item #10 in Sekich letter. I have had several
meetings with Butch and Fred Sekich (the developers of the
subdivision) during the submittal process . We have toured the
site together, searched out other potential sites together,
and met gith Dairy management on several occasions . The final
configuration of the site plan prior td the recent drainage
report was_ given to them several months ago. Items such as
tree's, irrigation ditch access, and road construction were
included as a direct result of discussions with them. I
assumed that as developers they were communicating our mutual
discussion with their family members and others considering
the subdivision. From late winter of 1994 until June of 1995,
we have not met pending response from the state and county to
our submittal . I recently met with Donna Sekich, her son, and
representatives of both state and local health departments at
the site. Donna and I have exchanged numerous phone calls in
attempting to meet prior to the hearing, but were unable to
connect on a time . It was our intent to have Trevor Jiricek
and Roger Doak at the meeting to discuss the application.
Perhaps if we had been able to meet many of their concerns
could have been addressed. I have also met with adjacent
feedlots and farmers on at least 4 Occasions to discuss the
site and other potential site locations.
The manure berm was placed to absorb abnormal amounts of
rainfall . It was in place for a few weeks only and was placed
back in windrows after weather cleared up.
The paper referenced here is the bedding material used by the
Dairy. We have not composted other wastes on the site. This
is the same paper that existed in stockpiles stored here
previous to our composting operation, and the same paper
contained in the dairy manure that the area farmers have
applied to their fields for years, including the field
irrigated from the ditch to the north of the property.
To my knowledge, we have never been contacted directly by
neighbors regarding any problems with the site . Had we been
contacted we would have assisted in cleaning up debris in
ditches whether it came from our site or not .
12) . Reference item #1 of next section in Sekich letter. The dairy
alone currently produces in excess of 100, 000 cubic yards of
manure . Composting reduces this volume by a minimum of 40% .
Sources for additional resources, if any, have not been
5
952093
07/31/95 08:53 TX/RX NO. 1408 P.006
arrived at yet . Production volumes are based on the sites
capacity and operational safeguards are provided for in the
operational plan.
13) - Reference item #2 of next section in Sekich letter. Site
preparation criteria is specifically outlined in the drainage
report and site plan.
14) . Reference item # (a) of the next section of the- Sekich letter.
Continued operation of the site has been addressed earlier in
this response. ,
15) . Reference item # (b) of the next section of the Sekich letter.
Excessive odors' have rarely. if ever, existed on the site .
The numerous surrounding feedlots and dairy's produce
significantly more odor than the compost site - Plies are
eradicated by the composting process. They are significantly
less in number than those present at adjacent manure storage
or production sites . During the operation of the site we have
continually attempted to increase -Our "housekeeping" efforts.
The land owner, dairy, and both health departments have
visited the site on numerous occasions and will verify this.
Extreme weather conditions have created excessive water on the
site, which would normally take several days to clean up, but
has always been accomplished within reasonable periods of
time .
•
16) . Reference itent3 (c) of the next section of the Sekich letter.
The Salazar family and Aurora Dairy were both provided copies
of the submittal information in 1994 when the potential need
for a CD was initiated. According to conversations with Jake
Salazar and David Sumrall (Aurora Dairy) conducted today, they
have no objection to our proposed use as long as their
interests are not compromised.
Thank you for taking time to consider our response. I again want
to emphasize delays in hearing our application were not by our
design and were communicated with various departments .
Sincer -
Bob YosI
Director, Marketing &
New Business Development
cc: Trevor Jiricek
Roger Doak
David Sumrall
Jake Salazar
Duane Wilson
6
952093
07/31/95 08:53 TX/RX NO. 1408 P.007
July 27, 1995 =-
Dear Board of Weld County Commissioners:
This letter is to inform you of the A-1 Organics/Salazar Family
Farm Composting operation a half-mile from the residential homes
in Grand View Estates. The Estates are located off of Hwy 66,
north of Rd 13 , two miles east of I-25.
We have many concerns regarding this operation, since it has
operated without a permit for over 5 years. Some of the concerns
are as follows:
-De-valuation of our residential property as well as
surrounding properties
-further enlargement of the composting site (presently using
approximately 20 acres, but permit application states using
"up to 40 acres")
-the trucking in of "municipal solid waste" and "food
production waste"
-minimal local and county tax gains as compared with the
adverse conditions it would create
-increased heavy truck traffic and the effect it would have
on the deterioration of the roads in the area
-facility access entrance and exit directly off of Hwy 66
-stagnating water in catch ponds causing undesirable odors
and creating an environment for insect populations
We would propose that the composting facility could still be kept
in Weld County. However, it should be located on acreage away
from any residential area in an environment where pesticides and
stagnating fluids and wastes do not affect the quality of life of
those people who live around it.
I am asking for your support to not approve the permit applica-
tion submitted by A-1 Organics now under consideration. It is of
great importance to us and we thank you for your cooperation in
this matter. Your vote against this is vital.
Sincerely,
E L. Maycu _mayAc\ J ni J./ cumbet
204 Grandview , Longmont, CO E 04
1
ex ibi+ Q
� : ��;/����c�,� 43/yr. 952093
Hans and Murielle Kissner
110 Grandview Drive
Longmont, CO 80504
July 27, 1995
Mr. Bud Clemons
800 - 8th Avenue, Suite 219
Greeley, CO 80634
RE: A-1 Organics/Salazar Family Farm Composting
Dear Mr. Clemons,
We are quite concerned regarding the above-named operation. Also, we understand
that the operation in question has operated without a permit for the past five years! Our
concerns are:
-devaluation of our residential property as well as the surrounding properties
-stagnating water in catch ponds causing undesiriable odors, it is at times already bad
enough, and creating an environment for insect populations.
-increased heavy truck traffic
We would like to propose to locate the composting facility away from residential areas
in an enrionment where pesticides and stagnating fluids and wastes would not affect the
quality of life of those who live near it.
We ask for your support in denying the permit application submitted by A-1 Organics.
Your vote against it is very i ortant to all of us in Grand View Estates.
/ Sincerely,
WELD COUMY PLANNING
ap AUG 21995:
EcEoVE 21
952093
JULY 26, 1995 •
WFI.0 COUNTY PLANNING
Weld County Dept. of Planning Services D n
1400 N. 17th Ave. J U L 3 '� 5-9 Ip )'
Greeley Colorado 80631 E ' II Pr
Re: A-1 Organics
As a member of the Sekich Family Farm operation I would like to voice some of my concerns
regarding the A-1 Organics Capital USR application for disposal waste facility. The current owner
operators of Sekich Farms are third generations of Sekich's to farm "this" farm "OUR HOME".
My father in law has been farming this site for 59 years. There are eight Sekich families including
my three sons, seven grandchildren, my niece and nephew and four children still living on the
home place.
I have lived here 40 years--- I do not wish to see the quality or standard of health and environment
detrimental to what has been a "good quality life" for my family. Therefore I would like you to
consider the following information.
A synopsis of persons and dates of complaints and inquiries by myself regarding the A-1 Organics
Composting Site.
I started calling and inquiring about this situation four years ago, starting April 4, 1991. I have
spoken with the following .
Trevor Jiricek Health Department 353-6100
Keith Shuett Planning Commission 353-3845 Ext. 3540
Cindy E.P.A. 353-0635
Bruce Barker Weld County Attorney 356-4000 ext. 4391
Roger Doke Hazardous Waste 692-3099
Chuck Kunloff Planning Commission
I am also submitting photos of the same problems in the Spring of 91, 93, and 95.
On October 21, 19941 was told by Bruce Barker, County Attorney, that A-1 had been cited for
violation on April 6, 1994. They were told to cease operations, but that was never done.
Violation was : Use not allowed in that district meaning they had to get a USR reference to
section 32.2 and 32.4 .
June 17, 1994, Stated it is a commercial operation and will need a USR permit.
September 13, 1994, Application received by Attorney General.
August 20, 1994, Will have meeting to review application.
October 26, 1994, Chuck Kunloff-Stated delay of USR, out of designation pursuant to Solid
Waste Act
952093
January 20, 1995, Trevor stated they have applied for permit.
May 11, 1995, Talked again to Trevor-He stated "they have applied" original application
July,1994.
Then A-1 Organics decided to vacate the property, and then again decided to go forward with the
USR. Composting regulations are being written and are in draft. Application follows
comprehensive planning, and they will need a USR. Per Trevor.
We had sent a letter to Keith Shuett, March 15, 1995 via our attorney Ken Lind of Greeley(copy
enclosed) addressing contemplated spring run - off problems as have happened in the past four
years.
Response from Keith Shuett was not received until June10 . June 12, 1995 I called Keith Shuett
telling him I had photo documentation as to the problems we had anticipated. Run - off was going
down to Road 17 crossing the under the ditch and going to the St. Vrain River. Also photo
documentation of stagnant ponds .
On June 12, 1995 I requested someone meet with me to view this problem. Trevor returned my
call, stating June 13, 1995 he would set a meeting on site with me, "for the first time"so that I
might meet with him in person. Attending the meeting were Trevor, Health Dept; Bob Yost A-1
Organics, Donna Sekich, land owner; Randy Sekich landowner- farmer of the property directly
affected north and north east of site and Paul Rail, Supervisor for A-I.
From June 12 to June 13, much work was done within 24 hours to improve the site prior to the
inspection meeting.
Major concerns addressed were Sekich Farm irrigation ditch which has a run off layer of manure
sludge laying on it at all times, the problem of stagnant ponds, and our problem of phone book,
and newspaper, and shredded debris in our irrigating tubes. This problem might have been
handled more appropriately if our letter of March 15, 1995 had been recognized as to it's contents.
On June 13, Bob Yost A-1 Organics told us that mosquito and fly spraying would be done over
the site each time Colorado Dairy sprayed their pens. Also stated by Mr. Yost, efforts would be
made to fill ponds with existing compost, also watering of road for dust control.
2.
352093
My concerns are:
Dairy manure as a compost facility only.
Insect control
Run off
Dirt berms and landscaping(Not manure berms)
Protection of Sekich irrigation ditch on north boundary of site
We have cleaned this ditch numerous times due to sludge.
Entrance and exit of traffic on State Highway 66. Records indicate the most recent
correspondence was dated October 1994, prior to this application.
In closing I wish to believe that A-1 Organics would show the proper integrity and responsibility
to operate this commercial business, but based on the last 4 years that has not been the case.
Thank you
n re-
Donna L. Sekich
6401 Hwy 66
Longmont, Colorado 80504
3.
952093
July 26, 1995
Bud Clemons, Weld County Planning Commission
800 8th Avenue, Suite 219
Greeley,CO. 80634
Dear Mr. Clemons,
This letter is to inform you of the proposed expansion of the A-1 Organics Farm Composting facility one-
half mile from the residential homes in Grand View Estates. Grand View Estates is located off Hwy 66,
north on Weld County Road 13,two miles east of Interstate 25. These homes are currently annexed as part
of the Mead township.
I have many concerns regarding this proposal,most of which stem from the fact that it has operated without
a valid permit for over 5 years. My concerns regarding the current proposal are as follows:
• De-valuation of my residential property(and surrounding properties).
• Proposed enlargement of the current facility from 20 acres to"up to 40 acres".
• Incorporation of "municipal solid waste"and"food production waste".
• Increased truck traffic into the facility from Hwy 66,which is already congested.
• Stagnate water which will provide a perfect environment for insects.
I would propose that this composting facility could still be located in Weld county;however, it should be
located on land away from any residential areas. This recycling of farm wastes is very ecologically sound,
and I whole-heartedly support these efforts.
I am asking for your support to not approve the permit application submitted by A-1 Organics that is now
under consideration. It is of great importance to myself and other home owners in Grand View Estates. I
thank you for your support on this matter.
Sincerely,
5rapa1t
108 Grand View Drive
Longmont, CO. 80504
Cc:
Mike Schuman, Mayor-Mead, CO.
Richard Kimmel, Weld County Planning Commission(Chairman)
Ron Sommer, Weld County Planning Commission
Curt Moore, Weld County Planning Commission
952093
Bud Clemons, Weld County Planning Commission
Judy Yamaguchi, Weld County Planning Commission
Jack Epple, Weld County Planning Commission
Marie Koolstra, Weld County Planning Commission
Shirley Camenisch, Weld County Planning Commission
952093
July 25, 1995
Memo To: Bud Clemons
Weld County Planning Commission
Re: A-1 Organics/Salazar Family Farm Compost Site
This letter is to express our concern regarding the operation of the A-1 Organics/Salazar Family Farm
Composte operation a half-mile from the residential homes in Grand View Estates. The Estates are
located off Hwy 66, north of Rd 13, two miles east of I-25.
Following we have listed a few of the concerns we have in regard to the operation of this composte site:
-Health and safety of residents in the area
-Environmental impact for the area
-Devaluation of properties in the area
-Further enlargement of the composting site(presently using approximately 20 acres but permit
application states using"up to 40 acres
-The trucking in of`municipal solid waste' and 'food production waste'
-Minimal local and county tax gains as compared with the adverse conditions created
-Increased heavy truck traffic and the effect it would have on the traffic flow and deterioation of
the roads in the area
-Facility access entrance and exit directly off of Hwy 66
-Stagnating water in catch ponds causing undesirable odors and creating an environment for
insect populations
I propose that the composting facility could still be kept in Weld County; however, it should be located on
acreage away from any residential area in an environment where pesticides and stagnating fluids and
wastes do not affect the health and welfare of the residents who live around it.
I am asking for you support in denying the approval of the permit application submitted by A-1 Organics
now under consideration. It is of great importance to me and I thank you for your cooperation in this
matter. Your vote against this is vital.
Best Regards,
952093
July 25, 1995
Dear Commissioner Hall,
RE: A-1 ORGANICS/ Salazar Family Farm Composting
This facility has been composting operation for a number of years, without a permit. It is
located approximately 1/4 to 1/2 mile east of Grandview Estates. They have been operating on
approximately 20 Acres of ground. In their permit application, they want to increase the size of
the operation to approximately 40 Acres.
Our concerns are:
-The increase in the size of the operation with a residential area so close to it
-The trucking in of(MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE and FOOD PRODUCTION
WASTE")
-The entrance and exit to the facility directly off of HWY 66
-The increased heavy truck traffic and the affect it will have on the deterioration of the
roads
-The loss of value to not only our property, but to the surrounding area as well
-The storage of liquid or solid wastes("the liquid in 21,000 gallon capacity")
-The time in storage of the waste that cannot be composted ("on a quarterly basis or
when amounts accumulated warrant it")
-The increased risk of disease to human health from the storage of"MUNICIPAL
- SOLID WASTE and FOOD PRODUCTION WASTE") with the increase of pests
that can spread disease
We feel it is totally inappropriate for a operation of this kind and size to be allowed to
operate in a populated area. We are not against composting, but do it in an area that is not so
close to population.
Therefore, we are asking you to vote to deny the composting permit to A-1 ORGANICS/
Salazar Family Farm.
T "
Sin rel ,
ems
3'aul D. and Janice L.•Ptopp
302 Grandview Lane
Longmont, CO 80504
535-4214
(`c: /Oc,,`NZ- 'Cfi�' .C3occ_�S° 7) 952093
•
July 25, 1995
Memo To: Bud Clemons
Weld County Planning Commission
Re: A-1 Organics/Salazar Family Farm Compost Site
This letter is to express our concern regarding the operation of the A-1 Organics/Salazar Family Farm
Composte operation a half-mile from the residential homes in Grand View Estates. The Estates are
located off Hwy 66, north of Rd 13,two miles east of I-25.
Following we have listed a few of the concerns we have in regard to the operation of this composte site:
-Health and safety of residents in the area
-Environmental impact for the area
-Devaluation of properties in the area
-Further enlargement of the composting site(presently using approximately 20 acres but permit
application states using"up to 40 acres
-The trucking in of`municipal solid waste' and'food production waste'
-Minimal local and county tax gains as compared with the adverse conditions created
-Increased heavy truck traffic and the effect it would have on the traffic flow and deterioation of
the roads in the area
-Facility access entrance and exit directly off of Hwy 66
-Stagnating water in catch ponds causing undesirable odors and creating an environment for
insect populations
I propose that the composting facility could still be kept in Weld County; however, it should be located on
acreage away from any residential area in an environment where pesticides and stagnating fluids and
wastes do not affect the health and welfare of the residents who live around it.
I am asking for you support in denying thc approval of the permit application submitted by A-1 Organics
now under consideration. It is of great importance to me and I thank you for your cooperation in this
matter. Your vote against this is vital.
Best Regards
��
952093
July 25, 1995
Weld County Department of Planning Services
1400 North 17th Avenue
Greeley, CO 80631
Re : A-1 Organics Site Specific Development Plan, Special
Review Permit and Certificate of Designation (USR-1059)
Tom Whom It May Concern:
The families represented by this letter all have residences
within 1, 200 feet of the A-1 Organics Highway 66 Composting
Facility. In addition, Sekich Farms, Inc . is directly adjacent to
the facility to the north, west and east . Therefore, we have a
strong interest in the Plan, Permit and Certificate .
We would like to make it clear that we are not opposed to the
Salazar family leasing their property to A-1 Organics nor do we
oppose the composting of manure from Aurora Dairy or the Aurora
Dairy operation. We are concerned with the A-1 Organics proposal
as submitted as it is a vast expansion of the composting operation
and they are now proposing to accept wastes from other facilities
other than the Aurora Dairy including other feedlots, municipal
yard waste, wood waste, bi-products, food processing waste and
municipal sludge . This vast increase of the types of materials,
which I might add even includes liquid wastes, has the potential to
cause significant problems in this area, especially in light of
past practices at A-1 Organics . We have been told over the years,
and even as recent as last week, that the composting would be
limited to the Aurora Dairy and we have just now learned of the
substantial increase of the types and materials of waste proposed
to be composted. That has caused a significant credibility problem
and heightened our concerns as well as other neighbors in the area.
We want to re-emphasize that we recognize that this is an
agriculture area and that is why we have no objection whatsoever to
proper procedures and composting of Aurora Dairy waste but we are
definitely opposed to the increase in volume and especially the
type of the materials proposed in the application.
We have reviewed the Application and have found numerous and
significant errors as follows :
rL^
6
.�. 1 JUL 2 5 1995
Weld County Department of Planning Services
July 25, 1995
Page 2
(1) Paragraph 2 . 3 describing existing surrounding properties .
No mention whatsoever is made of the fact that a large subdivision
is located immediately west of this site.
(2) Paragraph 2 . 9 concerning vehicular traffic . The
applicant discusses removal of finished products but only mentions
delivery of the dairy manure to the site. There is absolutely no
mention of delivery to the site of municipal yard wastes, wood
waste, other feedlot waste, food processing waste (dead turkeys and
chickens?) , municipal sludge and liquid waste which are proposed to
be composted at the site. Where are these wastes coming from, what
is the effect of traffic on Highway 66 and other County roads? How
many truckloads and/or tons per day are we talking about? It is
imperative that the applicant provide information as to all of
these other proposed wastes which they have failed to do.
(3) Paragraph 2 . 16 discusses landscaping plans and erosion
control . The applicant states that a berm will encompass the site .
However, the applicant has not provided any information as to the
dimensions of the berm or the materials for construction. At the
present time, the applicant has created a manure berm on the north
side of the property which merely results in manure and manure
runoff water running onto surrounding properties and into ditches
as well as blocking our ditch maintenance and access roads . The
applicant should provide specific requirements concerning the berm.
The applicant' s proposal also shows shrubs or trees being planted
on the berm. The County should require the applicant to provide
specific landscape details with a minimum size and spacing
requirement for the trees. The landscaping should be required to
encompass the entire west and north side of the operation rather
than just partial locations as shown on the plans .
(4) Paragraph 2 . 17 discusses reclamation. The applicant has
not provided any cost estimates for reclamation or made provisions
for providing a required bond or cash deposit normally called a
performance bond.
(5) Paragraph 2 . 18 is the time table showing construction and
start up. The application fails to state that this has been an
illegal operation for well in excess of three years . If this
application is approved, the County should require that all
activities upon the site cease until all conditions are met, plans
approved and filed. The applicant has shown incredibly bad faith
by continuing operations in violation of both State law as well as
County regulations during the last several years . Allowing the
applicant to continue operations before completion of all required
items is not proper. This application should be reviewed just like
2
952093
Weld County Department of Planning Services
July 25, 1995
Page 3
any other Use by Special Review which does not allow activities to
take place until the plat is recorded and all conditions and
requirements are met .
(6) Paragraph 3 . 2 concerning the application is consistent
with existing uses . The applicant states that it is compatible
with the surrounding community which is represented to be
agricultural . Again, the applicant fails to discuss the fact that
the Town of Mead is located immediately west of this property.
Composting of Aurora Dairy manure is a proper and compatible use
but the composting of all of the other proposed wastes is not
compatible . They are proposing an INDUSTRIAL use, not ag!
(7) Paragraph 3 .4 . The applicant indicates that adequate
provision is made for health, safety and welfare of the
neighborhood and that the applicant enjoys a responsible and
responsive reputation with its neighbors. This is not a correct
statement . Numerous complaints have been made to the owners of the
existing operation about the continued manure runoff onto the
surrounding fields and ditches, the loss of productive farm land
from the runoff, the need for continual cleaning of ditches and the
fact that the operation has blocked use and maintenance of roads
for irrigation ditches in the area. The proposal is inadequate in
protecting the health, safety and welfare of the neighborhood.
(8) Paragraph 3 . 5 describes adjacent property uses . Again,
the applicant describes the adjacent land uses as crop land, animal
feeding and dairy operations . The applicant totally fails to
mention the Town of Mead located immediately west of the proposed
operation.
(9) Paragraph 3 . 6 explains compatibility with Comprehensive
Plans or Master Plans of affected municipalities . Amazingly, the
applicant claims that the closest municipality is Platteville.
Obviously, the closest municipality is the Town of Mead and the
proposal is not in compliance with the Comprehensive Plan or Master
Plan of the Town of Mead. The applicant merely mentions an
"island" annexation west of the facility, but nothing is indicated.
(10) Applicant' s application at Paragraph 5 concerns general
comments . The application states that they have made substantial
efforts to address potential concerns of neighbors and they have
had several meetings with neighboring landowners . This is a false
statement . The applicant has only had one meeting with neighboring
property owners . Over the past several years neighboring property
owners have made numerous complaints to the applicant concerning
the continued manure waste runoff onto neighboring properties and
3
952093
Weld County Department of Planning Services
July 25, 1995
Page 4
into ditches . The applicant has totally failed to mitigate those
problems other than creating a huge manure berm on the north end of
the property which only increased the problems .
The applicant now mentions the Grand View Subdivision
indicating that the subdivision was not in place when dairy manure
was being stored and composted. This is correct, and that is why
we have no objection to the continued compost operation of dairy
manure which is a proper ag use. Now, however, the applicant is
proposing a huge increase in the volume and types of waste which
will have a substantial detrimental effect upon the entire
neighborhood. The applicant did not consider any input from the
neighbors, in fact, we have always been told that the composting
would only include the Aurora Dairy manure . It is only now that we
have learned of the other wastes being proposed. This clearly does
not indicate a responsible and conscientious operation.
It is also appropriate to mention at this time that the
applicant has composted wastes other than Aurora Dairy waste over
the past several years. This past winter a huge volume of paper
waste, believed to be phone books, was brought to the site. This
paper waste was not properly handled which resulted in paper
blowing from the site onto adjoining farms and into irrigation
ditches for days on end. The applicant made absolutely no effort
to clean up the paper waste and each property owner was then
required to clean their own property and ditches to remove this
paper. This is continuation of the applicant' s bad faith and why
this operation must be confined to composting and processing waste
from the Aurora Dairy facility only.
The next part of the application materials concerns the Site
Operational Plan. The Site Operational Plan commences at Page 17
of the application and new paragraphs are renumbered. Comments
concerning the operational plan are as follows :
(1) Paragraph 2 concerns the materials and estimated volumes .
The applicant now indicates that 150, 000 tons of waste will be
composted on site including the Aurora Dairy manure, other manure,
yard waste, ground wood, food processing wastes and municipal
sewage sludge . Obviously, this is a huge increase in the volume
and further lends credence to the fact that the applicant has
failed to disclose the source of the wastes and a true picture of
volumes and trucking information. A large semi truck can generally
haul 25 tons . If 150, 000 tons of waste are brought to the site all
by semi trucks, that is a total of 6, 000 trucks per year.
Obviously, 150 , 000 tons of waste is removed which is another 6, 000
semi loads . Thus, we have 12, 000 semi loads per year which is a
4
952093
Weld County Department of Planning Services
July 25, 1995
Page 5
huge increase in the operations . It should also be noted that some
wastes will be delivered by smaller vehicles which means that there
will be more than 12, 000 trips per year generated by this
operation.
(2) Paragraph 4 concerns site preparation. Again, the
applicant fails to discuss construction of perimeter berms
including size, height and materials . No mention is made of the
size or frequency of screening and the applicant has failed to
provide for access restrictions as required by State regulations .
We would also like the Planning Department, Planning
Commission and Weld County Commissioners to consider the following
points :
(a) A-1 Organics has operated a composting facility on the
site being proposed for the Plan, Permit and Certificate for at
least three years without proper permission of the State or County.
The surrounding property owners brought the unauthorized use of
property to the County' s attention, and compelled A-1 Organics to
complete the process of complying with Weld County' s Comprehensive
Plan and zoning requirements .
(b) During the last couple of years, A-1 Organics had made
unkept promises to control insects, standing water, odor and dust
and to keep our irrigation ditch clean. After their application to
Weld County for the above stated Plan, Permit and Certificate, only
then did they attempt tocomply with prior stated promises .
(c) The Salazar family and Aurora Dairy have told us that
they were not aware and were opposed to the composting of municipal
waste at the site.
We request that if A-1 Organics is allowed to continue its
operations that the Board of Commissioners include Development
Standards as follows :
1 . Raw material for composting be limited to manure wastes
received directly from the Aurora Dairy. No other wastes or
materials are to be permitted.
2 . Odors, insects, vectors and dust must be strictly
controlled on site .
3 . No composting operations be permitted on site until all
conditions, approvals and requirements are finalized.
5
952093
SENT 5Y:UniWest Es. Co. : 7-25-95 1:10PM : 3035354556-) 970 356 1111:# 1
Weld County Department of Planning Services
July 25, 1995
Page 6
4 . Performance and closure guarantees be required.
5 . No operations shall take place until the applicant has
fully complied with all requirements of the solid waste composting
regulations as currently being promulgated and/or amended in the
future.
6 . Pursuant to State regulations, this facility is not
exempt for any time delay or time extension as this operation is
not operating under a valid permitted design and operation plan nor
has this facility obtained an approval from Weld County as an
existing compost facility.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Fred & Donna Sekich "
Rick a Dana Sekich
Randy i Tori Sekich 1,
Karen i Nick Sekich If
John a Lisa Sekich
Veronica Sekich . 7
Et :
Nick 8.kich, rt, -Preeident
6
952093
July 24, 1995
Dear Mayor Schuman,
This letter is to inform you of the A-1 Organics/Salazar Family Farm Composting
operation a half-mile from the residential homes in Grand View Estates. The Estates
are located off Hwy 66, north of Rd 13, two miles east of Interstate 25.
I have many concerns regarding this operation, since it has operated without a
permit for over 5 years. Some of the concerns are the following:
-de-valuation of my residential property as well as surrounding properties
-further enlargement of the composting site ( presently using approximately
20 acres but permit application states using'up to 40 acres'
-the trucking in of'municipal solid waste' and 'food production waste'
- minimal local and county tax gains as compared with the adverse conditions
it would create
- increased heavy truck traffic and the effect it would have on the deterioration
of the roads in the area
-facility access entrance and exit directly off of Hwy 66
-stagnating water in catch ponds causing undesirable odors and creating an
environment for insect populations
I would propose that the composting facility could still be kept in Weld County; however,
it should be located on acreage away from any residential area in an environmnt where
pesticides and stagnating fluids and wastes do not affect the quality of life of those
people who live around it.
I am asking for your support to not approve the permit application submitted by A-1 Organics
now under consideration. It is of great importance to me and I thank you for
your cooperation in this matter. Your vote against this is vital.
Best regards,/ /
GIG G �iL Cam!/ / L(
Dan and Kathry Will
EXHIBIT
e -
1
952093
July 24, 1995
Dear Mr. Bud Clemons,
This letter is to inform you of the A-1 Organics/Salazar Family Farm Composting
operation a half-mile from the residential homes in Grand View Estates. The Estates
are located off Hwy 66, north of Rd 13, two miles east of Interstate 25.
I have many concerns regarding this operation, since it has operated without a
permit for over 5 years. Some of the concerns are the following:
-de-valuation of my residential property as well as surrounding properties
-further enlargement of the composting site (presently using approximately
20 acres but permit application states using 'up to 40 acres'
-the trucking in of'municipal solid waste'and'food production waste'
- minimal local and county tax gains as compared with the adverse conditions
it would create
- increased heavy truck traffic and the effect it would have on the deterioration
of the roads in the area
-facility access entrance and exit directly off of Hwy 86
-stagnating water in catch ponds causing undesirable odors and creating an
environment for insect populations
I would propose that the composting facility could still be kept in Weld County; however,
it should be located on acreage away from any residential area in an environmnt where
pesticides and stagnating fluids and wastes do not affect the quality of life of those
people who live around it.
I am asking for your support to not approve the permit application submitted by A-1 Organics
now under consideration. It is of great importance to me and I thank you for
your cooperation in this matter. Your vote against this is vital.
Best regards,
) j/7717
Dan and Kathr90 Will
952093
STATE OF COLORADO
Roy Romer,Governor of Cot
Patti Shwayder,Acting Executive Director a`` 4�
Dedicated to protecting and improving the health and environment of the people of Colorado
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS AND WASTE MANAGEMENT DIVISION «��JJJ
4300 Cherry Creek Dr.S. 222 S.6th Street,Room 232 "ran'
Denver,Colorado 802 2 2-1 530 Grand Junction,Colorado 81501-2768 en[
epa[D o ra Department od
Phone(303)692-3300 Phone(303)248-7164 Colorado
PublicdoHealth
Fax(303)759-5355 Fax(303)248-7198 �AIFI n(`(1I R'-�' and Environment
July 7, 1995 p J U L 2 5 1995 li7
Ms. Kathryn Will �'t (
6599 Hwy 66 E k; ti L.
Longmont, Colorado 80504
Dear Ms. Will:
I am writing at Governor Romer's request in response to your letter of June 24, 1995 regarding the composting
facility located approximately 1/2 mile north of State Highway 66 and one mile east of Weld County Road 13.
The operator of the facility, A-1 Organics, has submitted an application for a certificate of designation to
continue composting operations at this location. The Hazardous Materials and Waste Management Division of
the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (the Division) is reviewing the application for
technical accuracy and for compliance with the state's solid waste regulations 6 CCR 1007-2 (the Regulations).
The decision whether or not to issue the certificate rests with the Weld County Commissioners. The application
is available for public inspection and comment through July 10,but I am sure the Commissioners would welcome
your comments even a few days late. The application can be reviewed either at the Weld County Planning
Department or at our offices here in Denver.
Your letter raised several technical issues regarding operational activities and nuisance conditions at this facility.
I would like to address each one of your concerns below:
1. "The facility is planing on building three ponds to hold sewer run-off,which in addition to the over abundance
of flies will be a breeding ground for mosquitos."
The Regulations require a facility to contain storm water from a 25 year, 24 hour storm event. There will be
three retention ponds constructed on site for storm water retention, not for sewer run-off. Water contained in
these ponds will be applied to the compost windrows on a frequent basis. In regard to the flies and mosquitos,
the facility has committed to controlling nuisance conditions through best management practices. If this is not
effective in controlling vectors,then more aggressive controls will be implemented. If you have complaints,you
should contact your county health department and/or the Division.
2. "These piles of manure have been accumulating for at least five years, the whole time without the benefit of
a legal permit."
It is true that this 30 acre facility has operated over the last five years without a permit. The Division did not
become aware of this facility until approximately two years ago. The Division then informed the operator that
a permit(certificate of designation)would be required to continue operation at this site. The operator submitted
an application to the Division on August 3, 1994. The application is currently under review by the Division and
Weld County staff, pending the publication of new draft solid waste regulations by our office. The purpose of
the new draft regulations is to establish minimum standards of operation and design for composting sites and
facilities. I will send you a copy of as soon as they are published.
952093
CC : / 4.; f/L , G/L-
Ms. Kathryn Will
July 7, 1995
Page 2
On June 6, 1995, Trevor Jiricek of Weld County Health Department and I made a site visit to the facility. 1
observed several truck loads of manure mixed with bedding material from the Aurora Dairy arrive at the site.
The site contained numerous windrows approximately 12'wide, 6'high and 200-250'long, representing different
stages of the composting process. Very few flies were observed. Unpleasant odors were associated with the
fresh pile of manure/bedding but were not apparent with the compost windrows. Unpleasant odors were not
detected at the facility boundary.
During the site visit, Mr. Bob Yost of A-1 Organics, identified several feedlots which are located within a one
mile radius of the Grandview Estates. Mr. Yost explained that these feedlots stockpile their manure. These
feedlots may be the source of the nuisance conditions you described in your letter. Mr. Yost indicated he is
willing to provide a tour of the facility for you or any resident from Grandview Estates. I would be happy to
arrange a meeting with all involved parties.
I hope this letter addresses your concerns. If you have additional questions regarding this matter, please contact
me at (303) 692-3437.
Sincere��/\/Gx
Roger Doak
Geologist
Solid Waste Section
Hazardous Materials and Waste Management Division
enclosures
cc: Governor's Office, w/o enc. /
Weld County Commissioners, w/o enc.
T. Jiricek, Weld County Health Department, w/o enc.
D. Lang, WOCD, w/o enc.
B. Yost, A-1 Organics, w/o enc.
file SW/WLD/HGW 2P
June 24, 1995 j
Governor Roy Romer
136 State Capitol
Denver, CO 80203
Dear Gov. Romer,
My husband and I have built a new home in the Grandview Estates area on WCR 13 off Hwy
66, 2 miles east of 1-25. It is a beautiful location, where we have a panoramic view of the
great Rockies to the west, the fruited plains to the north and south and the morning sun from
the east, that comes to us bright and illuminating, as it washes over a square mile of illegal
manure, dumped there by the Colorado Dairy. The rows and rows of manure are piled high
for use by the A-1 Organics Company out of Greeley, CO, to use in making compost.
These piles of manure have been accumulating for at least five years, the whole time
without the benefit of a legal permit. This site is not only without a permit, but the
individuals profiting from it are just now applying for a permit, in arears, as a hearing is going
to be held in August, 95, five years after it's inception. They are now planning on building
three ponds to hold the sewer run-off,which in addition to the over abundance of flies will
be a breeding ground for mosquitos. All this illegal activity within a half mile of a housing
division, which when completed will have 75 homes.
We, along with several other owners of homes in the Grandview Estates division, have called
the Weld County Health Department and spoke to Treavor numerous times and have
contacted the Environmental Protection Agency and spoke with Keith several times over
the last three years. The WC Health Dept. has even told us that they have been out to
make'inspections'of the manure piles, saying that A-1 Organics and the Colorado
Dairy are being totally responsible for the upkeep, cleanliness(spraying for flies)and
odor control,all without the benefit of a permit,which if I had tried doing the same
business for myself, would have landed in court to justify opening such an EPA nightmare
without first obtaining, at least, a permit and having the proposed business venture voted on
by the majority of land owners in the immediate surrounding area that may be affected by
such a project.
I have spoken to John in your office and on his advice, I am taking the time to write to you
about this problem. Please feel free to call us at 1-970-535-9228 or write us at
6599 Hwy 66, Longmont, CO, 80504.
As of this date, all I've been told is that they will be holding a hearing in August, 1995 and
that they are presently applying for a permit.
My solution would be for A-1 Organics to move the manure piles to Greeley, where A-1
Organics has their business, a location away from any housing development where the
manure piles will not interfere with any of the beauty and vistas that our beautiful state has to
offer. Also, A-1 Organics could then apply for a permit legally,with confrontation.
i
Best regagls,
/�
4athryn Wil
'v 952093
cc: Board of Weld County Commissioners
Ms. Connie Harbert
Ms Barbara Kirkmeyer
Mr. Dale Hall
Mr. W. H. "Bill"Webster
Mr. George Baxter
Mr. Bruce Barker, Weld County Attorney
Mr. Lee Morrison, Assistant District Attorney
Mr. Don Warden, Finance Director
U
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952093
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4 EXHIBIT
I 47 WELD nCOUNTY sip,cnEM
July 24, 1995
We, the undersigned, are opposed the the application from A-1 Organics/
Salazar Family Farm Composting for a permit to operate a Hwy 66
Composting Facility that would permit and accept municipal solid waste,
manures, grass, leaves, biosolids, organic sludges and food production
wastes (see Draft 111 Composting Definitions as defined by the re-re-draft of
the Solid Waste Composting Regulation), which is located at part of the
W1/2, SW1/4 of Section 20, T3N, R67W of the 6th P.M., Weld County,
Colorado (approximately 1/2 mile north of State Hwy 66 and 1 mile east of
WCR 13).
N e Address
Dom' .l.Lll2 Rsz-
a 6,1 of �'� . tposvV
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EXHIBIT
e
952093 us
t r
July 24, 1995
We, the undersigned, are opposed the the application from A-1 Organics/
Salazar Family Farm Composting for a permit to operate a Hwy 66
Composting Facility that would permit and accept municipal solid waste,
manures, grass, leaves, biosolids, organic sludges and food production
wastes (see Draft 111 Composting Definitions as defined by the re-re-draft of
the Solid Waste Composting Regulation), which is located at part of the
W1/2, SW1/4 of Section 20, T3N, R67W of the 6th P.M., Weld County,
Colorado (approximately 1/2 mile north of State Hwy 66 and 1 mile east of
WCR 13).
Name Address
�-<-Q� � �� /tea �, 3�,�
LA 1I7 6 I Ve_w 9� M 8c v2
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EXHIBIT
952093 I
s
July 24, 1995
We, the undersigned, are opposed the the application from A-1 Organics/
Salazar Family Farm Composting for a permit to operate a Hwy 66
Composting Facility that would permit and accept municipal solid waste,
manures, grass, leaves, biosolids, organic sludges and food production
wastes (see Draft 111 Composting Definitions as defined by the re-re-draft of
the Solid Waste Composting Regulation), which is located at part of the
W1/2, SW1/4 of Section 20, T3N, R67W of the 6th P.M., Weld County,
Colorado (approximately 1/2 mile north of State Hwy 66 and 1 mile east of
WCR 13).
Name Address
Cis p
,�ti.c A6 l a1� �V)�hCl...xGalL��SI iA&,..�4 Q10 p o5o�
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Ae-ig
952033 ,E ceSa /os'y
July 24, 1995
We, the undersigned, are opposed the the application from A-1 Organics/
Salazar Family Farm Composting for a permit to operate a Hwy 66
Composting Facility that would permit and accept municipal solid waste,
manures, grass, leaves, biosolids, organic sludges and food production
wastes (see Draft 111 Composting Definitions as defined by the re-re-draft of
the Solid Waste Composting Regulation), which is located at part of the
W1/2, SW1/4 of Section 20, T3N, R67W of the 6th P.M., Weld County,
Colorado (approximately 1/2 mile north of State Hwy 66 and 1 mile east of
WCR 13).
Name Address
re Os91-ie/' //0 6;n2nQ/Viea✓ CC
fltz,HCC(P1SSiH._ i( � L t ,, /
r6N% Dr In Csrx.. 1 V ,,.,, s 11J �1 c,.a� �l got
D � 114 G4'GJD ow Ole) Wotan; (6, goof//� ic;Id kuo(Jvi /06 Grand View Dr. Lort-non4) CO Soso
eete.4 ve // S 6 owei V-eeo Olt, Zone krvo4, Goo, F0coil
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dry. Real
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EXHIBIT
952093 I N" 11
/S' /?s"
UNt,itCNTAL SO\
% Ti
= O�
March 27, 1995 44 `
,'organ Cr
Trevor Jiricek � � ) MAR 2 9 1995
Weld County Health Department
1517 16th Ave. Ct .
Greeley, CO 80631 ni'^Mu
Re : USR - Platteville Composting Site
Dear Trevor,
In response to our phone conversation last week, A-1 Organics will
proceed with the process for re-zoning the referenced site under a
USR (Use by Special Review) designation, with one of the conditions
of the USR being that we will obtain a CD (Certificate of
Designation) for the site once the requirements for the CD have
been finalized by the Colorado Department of Public Health and
Environment .
We have already submitted the original application along with the
application fee which encompasses the basic requirements for the
USR. In addition, I will prepare and submit the following items
contained in Roger Doak ' s letter of August 31 , 1994 .
1 . Engineer ' s review and seal will be provided as part of the
final CD submittal .
2 . Locations, dimensions, and grades of final surface water
control features will be included in the final CD submittal .
Interim control features (which may end up being permanent
control features ) will be provided for USR review.
3 . A site map showing the typical layout of the site was provided
in the initial submittal information. A more detailed map, if ,
still required, will be submitted for CD review.
4 . Surface water run-on and run-off control information was
provided with our initial USR submittal information.
Additional feature detail , if required after final CD
requirements for this site have been established, will be
provided at that time.
6 - 10 . Geological and geotechnical information, regarding well
locations , formation( s ) , structures , descriptions ,
permeability of on site materials (effectiveness as a liner) ,
and relationship of the site to the 100 year flood plain, will
be provided as part of the USR submittal information. I have
retained Groundwater Specialists of Boulder to provide these
requirements . They will have a report prepared within 3
weeks .
Asskx II1I ANI)N API CONFNM 1 ORAOb ( OLORA„O. 952093
ROC K1 Mot. IAIN GOI1 Col'IUI-SUFi It 1A 1 INI}IIAIA \NNO(IAI JON O1-COI OR1110
7-Cssow R-7F-"etRfoRrC'C7`soms ,TAX 303-454-3232 r Ter303:4 T3492 —._ ..__
11 . Construction information on the on-site evaporative ponds will
be provided with the USR submittal information.
12 . Five ( 5 ) additional copies of submittal information will be
provided to comply with section 1 . 6 . 2 of the Regulations .
We have provided, as part of our original submittal, vector ( fly) ,
and odor management or abatement plans . I will expand on these
plans and submit them with the additional USR submittal
information.
I will have this information to you by the 15th of April . It would
be prudent to set a work session with you and Planning and Zoning
at that time to review our application and hopefully schedule
initial hearing dates .
Please phone me should you have any additional questions or
requests . You can reach me at ( 303 ) 384-9232 , or by pager at 350-
1514 (Greeley # ) .
Sincerely,
Bob Yost
Director, Marketing &
New Business Development
cc : Keith Scheutt, Weld County Planning and Zoning
Roger Doak, CDPH&E
Jake Salazar et . al .
David Sumrall , Aurora Dairy Corporation
952093
STATE OF COLORADO
Roy Romer,Governor pF-Co
Patti Shwayder,Acting Executive Director _ • n, , to9
Dedicated to protecting and improving the health and environment of the people of Colorado if>
4300 Cherry Creek Dr.S. Laboratory Building i r
Denver,Colorado 80222-1530 4210 E.11th Avenue - -'—' - `1876
Phone(303)692-2000 Denver,Colorado 801220-]716. - -
(303)691-4700 Colorado Department
of Public Health
and Environment
February 3, 1995
•
Mr. Robert Yost, Director
Marketing and New Business Development RE: Letter of Intent for the Use and Distribution of Biosolids
Al Organics Al Organics Pilot Composting Operation
16350 WCR 76 CDPH&E BMP #0836
Eaton, Colorado 80615 Weld County
Dear Mr. Yost,
Enclosed please find the Notice of Authorization for the Use and Distribution of Biosolids for the A-1 Organics pilot
composting operation. The Notice of Authorization for the Use and Distribution of Biosolids contains references to
a number of monitoring and reporting requirements which are contained in the Colorado Biosolids Regulation, (5 CCR
1002-19, 4.9.0). The permittee is responsible for the identification of and compliance with any applicable criteria
contained in the regulations. This Notice of Authorization for the Use and Distribution of Biosolids specifically
authorizes the distribution of composted hiosolids from the Al Organics pilot scale operation. This pilot scale facility
was in operation for approximately six months beginning in March, 1993 and produced some 8,000 cubic yards of
compost. This Notice of Authorization for the Use and Distribution of Biosolids does not allow the distribution of
compost from any other operation at the facility or from any other facility or operation.
Fee payment, in the amount of two dollars and forty cents per dry ton for hiosolids which are distributed are required
per the Beneficial Use of Water Treatment Sludee and Fees Applicable to the Beneficial Use of Sludges(SCCR 1003-7,
15.B.1). Fees may be calculated based upon.either the volume of the hiosolids influent to the composting operation
or upon the quantity of finished compost.
The-generation of nuisance odors as a result of the composting operation is.suhject to the provisions of Regulation Two
of the Air Pollution Control Commission (SCCR 1001-4, 1973). Violations of applicable air quality standards are
subject to enforcement as provided pursuant to Section 25-7-115 the Air Pollution Control Act, 1970.
Should any questions arise, please contact Mr. Phil Hegeman-at
(303) 692-3598.
Sincerely,
Ati
Robert Shukle
Chief fi FEB
1995 ?1
Permits and Enforcement Section
WATER QUALITY CONTROL DIVISION ) '
xc: Weld County Board of Commissioners
Weld County Health Department
Victor Sainz. WQCD. FS
Bob Brobst, EPA
MSMP File#0836 Doe data\bs\0836N
952093
NOTICE OF AUTHORIZATION Part I
FOR Page 1 of 2
THE USE AND DISTRIBUTION OF BIOSOLIDS CDPH&E BMP #0836
PURSUANT
to the provisions of the Colorado Water Quality Control Act, Section 25-8-501 C.R.S., (1989 Repl. Vol. I IA and 1993
Supp.)and the Colorado Biosolids Regulation(SCCR 1002-19,4.9.0), this Notice of Authorization For The Use and
Distribution of Biosolids, authorizes the distribution of biosolids for unrestricted use from the Al Organics pilot scale
composting operation. This pilot scale facility was in operation for approximately six months beginning in March, 1993
and produced some 8,000 cubic yards of compost. This Notice of Authorization for the Use and Distribution of
Biosolids does not allow the distribution of compost from any other operation at the facility or from any other facility
or operation.
DISTRIBUTION
of biosolids shall he performed in accordance with applicable criteria of the Biosolids Regulation, (5 CCR 1002-19,
4.9.0)unless a variance has been issued by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Water Quality
Control Division in compliance with the requirements of 5 CCR 1002-19, Section 4.9.6. The permittee is responsible
for the identification of and compliance with any applicable criteria contained in the Biosolids Reculation(SCCR 1002-
19, 4.9.0).
MONITORING
shall he performed for the parameters identified and at the frequencies specified per the Biosolids Regulation (SCCR
1002-19, Sections 4.9.16.A and B). Additional monitoring requirements may be specified in Part hi, Special
Conditions, of this Notice of Authorization for the Use and Distribution of Biosolids.
REPORT SUBMITTAL
shall be made to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment per the requirements of the Biosolids
Regulation, (5 CCR 1002-19, 4.9.17 B).
SPECIAL CONDITIONS
are attached, as deemed by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Water Quality Control
Division to be necessary to assure compliance with applicable criteria of the Biosolids Regulation, (5 CCR 1002-19,
4.9.0).
RIGHT OF ENTRY
to the composting facility by an authorized representative of the Colorado Department of Public Health and
Environment, Water Quality Control Division,is authorized by the Colorado Water Quality Control Act, Section 25-8-
306, C.R.S. (1989 Repl. Vol. I IA) for performance of whatever site inspection, monitoring and.sample collection is
deemed to he necessary to assure compliance with the criteria contained in the Biosolids Reeulation, (5 CCR 1002-19,
4.9.0).
Al Organics PART 1
Pilot Composting Operation Page 2 of 2
Weld County CDPH&E BMP #0836
NON COMPLIANCE
with the conditions of this Notice of Authorization for the Use and Distribution of Biosolids may result an initiation
of enforcement action by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Water Quality Control Division
pursuant to Part 6 of the Colorado Water Quality Control Act, Section 25-8-601-612, C.R.S (1989 and 1993 Supp).
Action may include revocation of this Notice of Authorization for the Use and Distribution of Biosolids,and imposition
of administrative penalties.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
contained in this Notice of Authorization for the Use and Distribution of Biosolids are subject to revision, addition or
deletion based on any change in operation, biosolids quality or criteria contained in the Biosolids Regulation (5 CCR
1002-19, 4.9.0).
AUTHORIZATION
by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Water Quality Control Division does not relieve Al
Organics of compliance with applicable regulations of any other state, federal or local agency having jurisdiction.
NOTICE OF AUTHORIZATION FOR THE USE AND DISTRIBUTION OF BIOSOLIDS ISSUED THIS 3RD
DAY OF FEBRUARY, 1995
hey
J. '4'd Hole or
WATER QUALITY CONTROL DIVISION
952093
l¢OtaiLENTAL so,UTr
O
�_ `'orgarn� N
£OONOMIc SENSE
January 30, 1995
Greg Thompson
Weld County Department of Planning
1400 N. 17th Ave.
Greeley, CO 80631
Dear Greg,
I've enclosed a copy of a letter I sent to Trevor Jirick last week. I wrote the letter in an effort to
keep Trevor advised of what is happening regarding our CD application.
In the letter I mentioned that if it were possible, we would be willing to pursue zoning issues
while determination our actual permitting requirements for the CD were being finalized by the
state. We could make final issuance of the USR subject to meeting final CD requirements if that
would help.
I do not know if the system will allow us to do that or not. Could you let me know if it is
possible to move forward on our re-zoning issue while we are awaiting regulations regarding
operational and or site preparation requirements? While it was originally intended that we
pursue both the CD and USR issues simultaneously, it appears that the CD requirements may not
be defined for several more weeks.
Please feel free to phone me at 303-384-9232, or to write me at my Denver area office with your
comments. My address in the Denver area is: A-1 Organcis
6569 Hwy 93
Golden, CO 80403
Sincerely
zor)771 -
Bob Yost
Director, Marketing& �
New Business Development reTha l v]_.��_ _..r I I
cc: David Summeral, Aurora Dairy's l ' FEB 0 i 1995 IL.
.Jake Salazar .,<„Planningo
Trevor Jirick
ASSOCIATLD LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS OF COLORADO.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN GOT F COURSE SU PFRINTINDFN IS ASSOC IAIION 01=COLORADO _Q CC��
16350\VCR 76 • EA ON,CO 80615 • FAX 303-454-3232 • Ti.L 303-454-3492 9520✓3
flikñ
•
organ cr
CCONOMIC stv'ss ~_
January 26, 1995
•
Trevor Jirick-
Weld-County Health Department --- — =-______ _ __.-_. -
1517 16th Ave. Ctt.
Greeley, CO 80631
Re: Hwy 66 Composting Site - ..
Dear Trevor,
As you are aware, we have submitted an application for rezoning the compost site, which
includes requirements for obtaining a Certificate of Designation.. We received a response to the
CD portion of the application from Roger Doak around the 1st of September. Since that time we
have been participating in draft meetings regarding formulation of the final composting
regulations. These regulations will effect facilities like ours and our competitors regarding the
necessary requirements for proper permitting.
The reason we have not yet responded to Roger's letter is that while the regulation writing
process continues, we are placed in a "gray area" regarding the requirements for sites similar to
ours, since final regulations have not been defined. We will be placed at a severe disadvantage
if we are forced to meet requirements for the "ultimate".facility, while our competitors in Weld
County and elsewhere are allowed to wait until final regulations are implemented and are then
required to meet less demanding levels of permitting and or operational standards. This would
be neither equitable nor fair.
In the interim, we have continued to operate the facility in a responsible manner. We have
taken steps to insure public health and environmental issues. We have constructed some
retention berm's, reduced the size of stockpiles, and purchased a aeration unit to stay at the site
on a full time basis to reduce odor and or fly concerns. -
According to Glenn Mallory, we should see final regulation's within the few weeks or at least by
early spring. We will continue responsible operation of the facility until those regulations are
defined, and then complete the response to Roger appropriately. We would also X'nn'\CCV)nn)(rr5M
yagI
FEB 0 1 1995
- r ,n—rite pta■nn■niinn
a AssoA I ISO LANUsc IN CONTRA( I ORS 01:Cctt.ORADO. �52 /�J3 --
120OKY MOUNT Gal
AIN l:CcURsl SUP CRIN9'1.NOLN 1 S ASSOC:IA 1 ION OP COI.ORA1)0
`-' 16350 WCR 76 • lin ION,CO 80015 • FAX J03-454-3232�'h303-454-3492
be open to continuing the rezoning process without formal issuance of the CD., with the
stipulatiojilhat we would meet CD requirements when defined if this is pos5'Cble. I will be
contacting Greg Thompson with planning to explore that option, and will keep you advised of
the situation. In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at my
Denver office by phoning (303) 384-9232.
Sincere
Bob Yost
Director, Marketing &
New Business Development cc: Greg Thompson, Weld County Planning
Roger Doak, CDH
BY/by
•
•
952093
LIND, LAWRENCE & OTTENHOFF
ATTORNEYS AT LAW
THE LAW BUILDING
1011 ELEVENTH AVENUE
P.O. BOX 326
GREELEY, COLORADO 80632
GEORGE H. OTTENHOFF TELEPHONE
KENNETH F. LIND (303) 353-2323
KIM R. LAWRENCE August 24 , 1994 (303) 356-9160
g TELECOPIER
JEFFREY R. BURNS (303) 356-1111
Weld County Department of Planning Services
1400 North 17th Avenue
Greeley, CO 80631
Attention: Chuck Cunliffe
Re : Closure Plan VI-1970 (A-1 Organics)
Dear Mr. Cunliffe :
On January 20, 1994 we received a copy of a letter concerning
the closure plan for A-1 Organics . Recently, I was requested to
inspect the property and it appeared that the A-1 Organics manure
storage was in full operation and nothing had been done to either
close the facility, apply for a USR or to mitigate the continuing
drainage problems which has resulted in manure water running into
ditch belonging to our clients .
We would request that you review this situation and inform us
as to the status .
Very truly yours,
LIND, W NC TTENHOFF
Kenn h F. Lind
KFL/cg
I 1 AUG 2 5 1994
h J
. .°' ..,ti,Planninn
952093
P 02
September 29, 1993 rip
is
Chuck Cunlifre
Weld County Department of Planning Services hi or aIUCSTM
1400 N. 17th Ave.
Greeley, CO 80631
16350 Weld County Road 76
Re: Salazar Mobile Home Permit Reton,C6orado80615
(303)454.3492
Dear Chuck,
On Monday the 27th, we were informed by Jake Salazar that their
request for a mobile or modular home permit had been denied due to
the pending zoning violation proceedings that pertain to the
compost site that A-1 Organics leases from the Salazar' s. The
issue of the home permit is un- related to the pending compost site
zoning violation.
As you are aware, A-1 Organics is seeking a permit on the compost
site location. On Tuesday the 27th, after a delay of nearly 30
days, we finally received the letter from the State Health
Department needed for submittal of our letter to the County
Commissioners. We submitted our letter to the Commissioners that
same date. A copy was hand delivered to your office, Lee Morrison,
and Trevor Jiricek as well. Depending on the response from the
Commissioners regarding our letter dated September 1 , 1993 we will
promptly submit either our application for the compost site permit
or a closure plan for the site.
For all practical purposes, the home permit is unrelated to the
zoning violation issue surrounding the compost site. The degree of
inconvenience and cost being placed upon the Salazars is
significant since the family member who will be living in the
trailer is renting elsewhere and has given notice to move.
Therefore, we respectfully request that the planning department
review the Salazar request and issue the home permit based on its
merits only as quickly as possible..
If additional information or clarification concerning this issue is
needed, please do not hesitate to phone me.
Sinu/ga;cly,
eat✓
Bub Yost Members of:
American Society of Landscape
cc: Lee Morrison, Assistant County Attorney architects
J a ke Salazar Associated Landscape Contractors of
Colorado
Rocky Mountain Golf Course
Superintendents Association of
Colorado
SEP 30 '93 13:36 PAGE.002
952093
114
July 26, 1993 11i5 IS ill
5
Greg Thompson
Weld County Department of Planning Services hi organicstM
1400 N. 17th Ave.
Greeley, CO 80631 16350 Weld County Road 76
Eaton,Colorado R0615
Re: Salazar Family Farms Composting Site
(303)454-3492
Dear Greg,
Thank you for meeting with Chuok Wilson and me today. I appreciate
your willingness to assist us in completion of our use by special
review application.
We will look forward to hearing from you later this week on any
additional information or changes of format that you would suggest
we include or make in our submittal.
I should also have the remaining supplemental information
accumulated by the end of the week as well.
Again, thank you for your assistance.
Since y,
e2-6 90-71/9 Dr5R5FIRVT.
Bob Yosi
A-1 Organics I JUL 27 199
1 L.
cc: Jake Salazar Wesrwu auryrraoiung
Colorado Dairy
Members of:
American Society of Landscape
Architects
Associated Landscape Contractors of
Colorado
Rocky Mountain Golf Course
Superintendents Association of
Colorado
952093
August 8, 1995
,4 n
Memo To: Mr. Dale Hall
Weld County Commissioner
Re: A-1 Organics/Salazar Family Farm Compost Site
This letter is to express our concern regarding the operation of the A-1 Organics/Salazar Family Farm
Composte operation a half-mile from the residential homes in Grand View Estates. The Estates are
located off Hwy 66, north of Rd 13,two miles east of I-25.
Following we have listed a few of the concerns we have in regard to the operation of this composte site:
-Health and safety of residents in the area
-Environmental impact for the area
-Devaluation of properties in the area
-Further enlargement of the composting site(presently using approximately 20 acres but permit
application states using"up to 40 acres
-The trucking in of`municipal solid-waste' and 'food production waste'
-Minimal local and county tax gains as compared with the adverse conditions created
-Increased heavy truck traffic and the effect it would have on the traffic flow and deterioation of
the roads in the area
-Facility access entrance and exit directly off of Hwy 66
-Stagnating water in catch ponds causing undesirable odors and creating an environment for
insect populations
I propose that the composting facility could still be kept in Weld County;however, it should be located on
acreage away from any residential area in an environment where pesticides and stagnating fluids and
wastes do not affect the health and welfare of the residents who live around it.
I am asking for you support in denying the approval of the permit application submitted by A-1 Organics
now under consideration. It is of great importance to me and I thank you for your cooperation in this
matter. Your vote against this is vital.
Best Regards,
diva/
et.' 4crc(s )) CA �aa�Lr�, Gl (Did); Pt HI-- 952053
EXhrbafE
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