FNSB Assembly hears resolution opposing Manh Choh mine trucking proposal

FAIRBANKS, Alaska (KTVF) - The proposed Manh Choh mining project is once again set to enter the Fairbanks political arena.

On Thursday, March 9, the Fairbanks North Star Borough Assembly scheduled a proposed resolution opposing a part of the project.

Specifically, the resolution, proposed by assembly member David Guttenberg, takes issue with the proposed route for transporting ore from the mine near Tetlin to a processing facility at Kinross Fort Knox.

The resolution expresses concerns with, among other things, interference with the flow of traffic, damage to the roadways, and the safety of school bus stops along the route.

Borough Mayor Bryce Ward says as written, he does not support the resolution. “There certainly are safety concerns that folks have expressed as a part of the project. I think that, based on the engagement with Kinross, that they are working to address those safety concerns, and I think that we can find something that’s amenable, that will address those concerns with the community,” Ward said.

“I, for one, am really interested in finding a way forward, where we can support what I think is a very valuable project for the community, but also address the safety concerns that our residents have expressed, and I think that the contractors expressed as well,” added Ward.

On January 9, the Fairbanks City Council passed a resolution expressing concern with the trucking proposal. On February 8, the North Pole City Council unanimously voted to oppose the current plan.

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