The cost of 'development' (10/13/06)

To the editor:

"Economic Development" is the current buzz word regarding CAFOs (concentrated animal feeding operations) in Indiana.

Here are some facts every taxpayer should note before the upcoming election. A permit application for a CFO (confined feeding operation), costs the producer $100.00; a general application fee is $250.00; and an individual permit fee is $400.00.

The applications are to be reviewed by the permit writer. Site visits are to be made, and paperwork completed by both permit writer and support staff. Who pays for all these costs? Taxpayers.

Would not a more reasonable fee be $5000.00? This would cover the cost of doing business and would take the burden off the taxpayer.

Recently, the announcement was made that there would be more inspections made at new CAFOs. This is a step in the right direction.

However, again, look at the cost to be absorbed. The average salary of an inspector in Indiana is $46,185. Who is paying the bill? The corporations moving into Indiana are headquartered in other states. Would not the profits be returned to their corporate headquarters? The only taxation on the local level are the barns and equipment.

When you consider there is the potential for a property devaluation of 30 percent or more to nearby residences, this is cause for concern.

Please study the CAFO issues regarding health, water and air pollution, property devaluation, and your quality of life, before the November election. History is a great teacher! Study the impacts CAFOS have had on other states in recent years.

"Economic Development?" At what cost?

(Note: All figures obtained from Indiana Department of Environmental Management).

Barbara Sha Cox

Richmond[[In-content Ad]]