Demanding Real Solutions, Not Band-Aids

For too long, companies like CEMEX have operated under "pay-to-pollute" systems that allow them to offset their environmental impact through fines rather than genuinely resolving the issues. Such an approach does not only fall short of real accountability but also perpetuates the cycle of pollution, impacting both our community and the environment at large.

Violations Should Lead to Corrective Actions

When it comes to the emission of harmful pollutants like CO2, NOx, and PM, financial penalties are not enough. We advocate for the implementation of corrective actions that can substantially reduce future violations. These should be designed to address the root causes of the problem and be closely monitored for effectiveness.

Outdated Grandfather Clauses Must End

CEMEX's Lyons Plant enjoys "grandfathered" status under both Boulder County's Land Use Code and the Clean Air Act. This means the facility operates under outdated regulatory standards that fall far short of modern environmental and safety requirements.

Pushing for Modern Compliance

The time has come to bring CEMEX into the 21st century. We believe the plant's grandfathered status should be terminated, forcing it to apply for permits that align with contemporary standards. Not only has CEMEX expanded its production capacity, but continued operations under outdated norms also pose increasing risks to the community and the environment.

More Trucks, More Problems

CEMEX's decision to double truck traffic for the Lyons Plant poses a cascade of challenges—from increased air pollution to road safety concerns. And yet, this significant change in operations seems to have slipped through regulatory oversight.

A Multi-Faceted Approach for Oversight

We argue that CEMEX should be held accountable for this substantial operational change on multiple fronts. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) should include these new emissions in their air quality oversight. Furthermore, the Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety (DRMS) and Boulder County should require new permits or amendments that address the increased safety risks. Last but not least, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) should assess the impacts of this change on our roads and overall traffic safety.