Neighbors urge city to weigh Cumberland aggregate mine impacts and protect Lizard Mountain

Concerned residents told the Eden Plus City Council on July 13 that a proposed Cumberland Aggregate Mine and Asphalt Plant could have long‑lasting impacts on Enumclaw and neighboring communities.

Julius Stevens, who lives in unincorporated King County just outside Enumclaw, urged the council to review King County materials and take the project’s regional effects into account. Stevens said the proposal contemplates "25 to 35 years of removing a gravel from the area," anticipated "approximately 298 to 668 heavy trucks per day," and estimated water use of "175,000 to 250,000 gallons a day." He warned those effects would create noise and traffic impacts that could affect emergency services and road quality.

Linda Stevens asked the council to help preserve roughly "990 acres just North of Cumberland," including Lizard Mountain and river access. She said residents worry about well impacts and the loss of public recreational space if large projects proceed. She noted that county and state entities have signaled possible interest in conservation.

What residents asked: Both speakers urged council to review the county’s release and to encourage public comment; Stevens noted King County is accepting comments through Aug. 7 and that she left materials with the city clerk.

What the record shows: These remarks were made during public comment; no formal city action was taken at the meeting on the county permitting process. Council did not vote on any municipal permit for the mine; the comments represent constituent concerns and requests for the council to engage or make a letter of record if it chooses.

Next step: Officials and interested residents may follow the county’s public comment deadline (Aug. 7) and work with county staff as appropriate.