(Missoula) Missoula County officials held off Thursday on determining whether the expansion of a gravel pit north of Florence could move forward but directed the company and neighborhood group to discuss an effort to find a solution agreeable to both sides.
In October, Western Materials requested a variance to expand its 80-acre gravel operation off Old Highway 93, as required by the Carlton-area neighborhood’s zoning.
Many were concerned about the noise and dust, increased truck traffic on Old Highway 93, reduction of property values and water quality. In its initial application, Western Materials stated the expansion would provide gravel and sand for local construction and road projects, keep jobs in the county and reduce the mileage and cost of transporting materials from another pit.
