Residents of Flower Mound are raising concerns about environmental issues stemming from local construction activities, particularly related to the Pepper Creek project. During a recent town council meeting, a resident highlighted the detrimental effects of construction runoff, which has reportedly contaminated water sources and harmed local wildlife, including fish and cattle.
The resident recounted how runoff from the Pepper Creek construction site, which began five years ago, led to the death of fish and longhorn cattle on a nearby ranch. The rancher, Don Hanby, now faces challenges in accessing clean water for his new cattle, as he must source it from outside the area due to contamination in his ponds. The environmental department has been notified multiple times, resulting in fines for the construction company, but the cleanup process remains a pressing concern.
Additionally, the meeting addressed recent observations of cement dust emissions from a local plant, raising alarms about potential health risks associated with silica and heavy metals present in the dust. The resident reported seeing a plume of gray smoke and called for immediate action, prompting a response from the environmental department and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
In response to these concerns, town officials assured residents that the cement plant is operating within local and state regulations. They emphasized that the facility is properly permitted and that measures are in place to manage dust emissions. However, the council acknowledged the need for ongoing monitoring and communication with construction companies to address community concerns effectively.
As Flower Mound continues to grow, the implications of these environmental issues highlight the importance of vigilant oversight and proactive measures to protect local ecosystems and public health. The town council is expected to follow up on these matters, ensuring that residents' voices are heard and that necessary actions are taken to mitigate future risks.