"We are willing to do what we can to help stop this terrible proposal!"

- Nicholas & Mary Paul

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"Let me know what I can do to help stop this project."

- Janet Shelton

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"I can't think of a more destructive thing to occur to our neighborhood. Chronic noise, huge trucks, dust (and disease, AND the destruction of this riverbed area 5 days a week, 7am to 5pm for 10-12 years!!! You must be kidding. Completely appalling disrespect for citizens who live nearby and those who recreate in these areas. The developer should do this in THEIR neighborhood instead since they think this is such a great idea."

- Christine Wilson

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"This project is not what the County is saying it will be. This project will affect the surrounding neighborhoods with noise and pollution. The land should be turned into a nature preserve in order to keep the beauty of the area. The ecological damage will be immense and will never be the same."

- Errol G. Cooper

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"We have such little habitat left for our birds. And we need more open space for our citizens. A ten year mining operation is not what San Diego County needs in such an important riparian habitat."

- Michael Golden

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"It's a horrible idea, putting a sand mine in a residential area near several schools, homes and businesses all around it. The trucks will impede travel to and from schools. The air quality will be terrible for the residents and students in the adjacent areas. School children jogging that area daily for gym class and track team training. Property values for all the area homes will be devalued. There is no place for a sand mine in Rancho San Diego!"

- Eleanor Boracci

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"I support Stopping the Cottonwood Sand Mine!"

- Sam Attisha

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"I am concerned about the potential impacts will be to our area in terms of: 1) Traffic with trucks coming in and out; this destroys the roads as can be seen with the existing mining operation on Willow Glen Drive; as it is, there are plenty of trucks coming in and out already on WGD, 2) Pollution in the form of dust; with the two other mining operations in the area, has this cumulative impact been assessed, 3) Noise. The mining operation near Jamacha Road is already quite noisy, and 4) Do we, the neighbors have a real say about whether this project will be approved or not?"

- Manuel Posadas

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"We are in support of StopCottonwoodSandMine.org's efforts to stop this sand mine. Thank you for your efforts on our behalf!"

- Kornelia Kopec

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"I cannot imagine a neighborhood where, on top of everything that COVID-19 has thrown our way, has to be concerned about the very air we breathe so that my 2-year old daughter does not get cancer or develop asthma. I don't know what kind of calloused, greedy, selfish mind would dream up such a plan - I oppose this whole-heartedly. Shame on the land owner for even considering it, knowing that children will suffer the consequences for their personal enrichment!! But, that is what you get when money is your God."

- Dean Soule

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"I am definitely not in favor of this project which will destroy that beautiful property and will adversely impact all the surrounding communities."

- Phil Vinci

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"No Sand Mine!"

- Heather Bell

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"I am requesting the immediate halt to this project! The environmental repercussions to the health of the community is too great."

- Carolyn Fowler 

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"Please can we all show support for an end to the Cottonwood Sand Mine? Homeowner's beautiful views will be obstructed and we will only hear machinery all day."

- Heather Daniels

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"I'd like to help stop sand mining from coming to our area!"

- Brenda Sako

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"What a horrible plan for this area!"

- Dona Mapston

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"I think it would be a disgrace to our beautiful city to place this in the middle of some of the most lush and green areas in south San Diego. We are a city that prides itself on our protection of the environment and this seems to go completely against it. I will not support this measure at all and I hope that no citizen of San Diego does."

- Diego Gomez-Ceballos

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"I live on Wind River Road overlooking Cottonwood Golf Course and am very concerned about this potential sand mining project."

- Bruce Ellis

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"We oppose the sand mine for the following reasons: Home value will decrease; dust/dirt/air quality; current area is a nature preserve and that would be destroyed; it will be an eye sore; and big, heavy trucks will be traveling on an already busy road."

- Courtney Fenton

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"We are not for this sand mine!"

- Christopher Attisha

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"We support stopping this project and will write a letter to the Valle de Oro Community Planning Group, cc'ing the letter to the Planning Department and each Board of Supervisor. We plan to attend the meetings also!"

- Mark & Sandi Steers

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"STOP Cottonwood Sand Mine!"

- Hamza Almalah

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"Please do not put another sand mine in the middle of our neighborhood, creating more pollution, traffic and any eye sore. Stop the greed and care about the communities."

- Brad Maxfield

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"Please, no sand mine in this beautiful area."

- Jeff Jones

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"We live in Jamul on Jamul Drive, just a few miles from this area. Me and my son both have asthma and this sand mine would cause major health issues. Please help us stop this project!"

- Sara Vega-Rojas

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"I am against this project!"

- William Menzie

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"STOP Cottonwood Sand Mine! Don't destroy our wonderful neighborhood and harm our families. If a sand mine goes in, there will be so many families filing a lawsuit."

- Kimberly Albut

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"This will be detrimental to all Rancho San Diego neighborhoods!"

- Sandy Warwick

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"The edge of Jamul and Rancho San Diego is a beautiful gem tucked in San Diego's eastern communities where I reside. They boast beautiful natural preserves, trees, and hills extending beyond measure. It is truly a beautiful sight and a beautiful place to live - but, a Sand Mine will be anything but beautiful. It does NOT bring any value to our community. It brings with it only negative impacts to our current community. We will have an increase in environmental pollutants, an eyesore for residents and visitors, decreased property value for all those nearby, and increased traffic. The 94 has one lane each direction and that won't be changing in any time soon. With the large amount of sand trucks involved with this project, traffic will be horrible. No one I know is in support of this sand mine. It does not belong in this community."

- Lisa Fann

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"I am a homeowner in Jamul and my household opposes the Cottonwood Sand Mine project for many reasons. These include: the environmental impact, pollution, congestion, noise, and adverse impact on aesthetics. The project would do irreparable harm to the area and would adversely impact property values as well."

- Kurt Womack

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"STOP the Cottonwood Sand Mine! This will cause homes to depreciate in value. Schools won't be able to enjoy recess with high winds blowing sand in the area. This will increase health problems for those, including myself, who have asthma."

- Jocelyn Rivera

"Take this idea to the desert!"

- Anne-Marie Roach

"I live extremely close to this site. This cannot come to fruition or our quality of life will be forever changed."

- Lynn Ann Garrett

"As a staff member of the Water Conservation Garden, I support stopping this environmental disaster. the Garden also supports it!"

- Lauren Magnuson

"I write from Hawaii. We are getting ready to move to our new home in Rancho San Diego in just a few weeks. I strongly oppose this project and want to help."

- Amanda Jarvis

"Please do not build this sand mine!"

- Leilani Mendoza

"This is a terrible idea for the communities surrounding this area. It will constantly impact the quality of our daily life."

- Whitney Jones McDonald

"I live on Willow Glen and would appreciate STOPPING this sand mine!"

- Abigail Garcia

"I would like to help in the effort to stop the sand mine from disrupting our community."

- Natalie Barrantes

"I am voicing my opposition to the Cottonwood Sand Mining Project!"

- Gina

"I oppose the Cottonwood Sand Mine. It will create pollution, traffic, and too much noise in the surrounding residential area."

- Bill Mansy

"We join StopCottonwoodSandMine.org in opposing this venture."

- Judy Swartwood

"To protect my family's health, I oppose this project!"

- Hadir Helo

"We oppose the sand mine and the adverse health issues it will create as well as the traffic and noise that will impact our community."

- Candice Lenney

"We are against this project!"

- Judith Quint

"We support stopping this sand mine."

- Pirouz Pourhashemi

"NO on sand mining!"

- Sue Regan

"We are opposed to this development."

- Greg Quint

"This will be an environmental disaster!"

- Mary Wylie

"Stop the Cottonwood Sand Mine!"

- Anne Shaffer

"We are now included in Board of Supervisor Nathan Fletcher's district. Regardless of political leanings, his politics and policies align nicely with our goal of stopping this sand mine. I suggest everyone emailing him with their comments regarding this project."

- Stephanie Young

"I've learned about this plan and it's terrible! We have a yard sign up to raise awareness."

- Lyndsay West

"Please stop this project. It will be a disaster to our beautiful and quiet neighborhood."

- Elaf Alwazeer

"Don't ruin the area and keep the sand mine out!"

- Rick Urban

"There are already two open pit mining sites within 2 miles of this proposed site - on Willow Glen and Jamacha. A third mining operation is an excessive load on community exposure on many levels. I'm especially concerned about air quality values of silica and particulates which are already under questionable control from the current sites. Why does our community have to be the mining town for San Diego County?"

- Anne Baptiste

"I don't support this!"

- Mike Sitto

"This project should not be approved because of the harm it will cause to the environment and the public's health."

- Cristina Calzo

"Stop this Sand Mine!"

- Susan Neumayer

"This project needs to stop!"

- Maan Kyeso

"This sand mine makes no sense in this locale. The draft environmental impact report is woefully inadequate in addressing its negative impact on the community."

- Dale Parent

"This needs to stop!"

- P. Serino

"This is an inconsistent use - a mining operation in an established community. The biological, cultural, and health effects are detrimental and significant."

- Theresa Foster

"We live nearby and are strongly against this mining operation."

- Russell

"Don't ruin our neighborhood with noise and traffic. Why is everything always dumped in East County? I say NO to the sand mine!"

- Karen Beck

"This sand mine MUST BE STOPPED for the sake of the community."

- Lori Hable

"Mining should never be done where people live. Sand (silicate) is some of the most abundant resource on the planet. This is a bad deal with long term damages for the ecosystem and resident's health. Get the sand elsewhere!"

- Terry

"Traffic/large trucks, noise, reduction in home value, already congested area, pollution - we already have noise from two quarries (one on Willow Glen and one on Jamacha). This area is very populated with young families and schools. We cannot destroy the Sweetwater riverbed!"

- Joan Hutton

"I've already sent an email to the County's Planning Director opposing the project. Will be coordinating an email opposition response to the County by the Grove Road residents."

- Tom Clark

"Stop the destruction and rape of open spaces."

- Deborah Butterfield

"Thank you StopCottonwoodSandMine.org for helping to keep our community safe and beautiful!"

- Kalodiah Toma

"Don't ruin the area by digging up all the sand."

- Rick Case

"We need to stop this! I have lived in Jamul my entire life and this will NOT benefit our community!"

- Rita Rabban

"We do not want this happening in our community."

- Jennifer Vahle

"Stop the sand mine!"

- Fawaz George

"We purchased our home in Pasatiempo in August 2020 because it is a quiet, safe and conveniently located neighborhood in East County. When our son was born in December of that year, we were reassured that this would be a wonderful community in which to raise our son. The terrible prospect of the mining operation would force us to revisit our plan to call this area our forever home. I know I am not alone, our neighbors are concerned and have often discussed where we would move if the mining operation was permitted to occur. I STRONGLY oppose the prospect of mining that beautiful piece of land and urge all who pay taxes in this area to do the same!"

- Aria Allos

"I do not support the Cottonwood Sand Mining project. It will create excess pollution and traffic jams that will impact the population nearby permanently."

- Lars Allos

"We are against the sand mine in our community!"

- Vicky Rosenberg

"We are opposed to creating a large industrial enterprise such as this in such a quiet and beautiful residential area. As residents of Jamul and Rancho San Diego, this already challenged traffic area would be critically negatively be impacted. Rush hours and Sycuan casino already stress these roads which were not made for such an expansion of such traffic and noise pollution. Absolutely NO to this project!"

- Eileen Araiza

"We don't want more traffic in Rancho San Diego, especially with big rig trucks and flying rocks/sand."

- Ricardo Hernandez

"No need to place industry right in the middle of a community. Open space is important to the welfare of the community."

- Richard Roberts

"What safe route will there be for students to walk from the north side of Willow Glen to Jamacha Elementary? With the added traffic of large hauling trucks, I don't think crossing that street will be safe any longer for the elementary-age school children. Also, has the San Miguel Fire District and the Cajon Valley School District given their opinion about this project? I suspect that neither would be in support."

- Lee Holter

"Upstream conditions affect riparian habitats. This sand mine will have a negative impact on the riparian environment rehabilitated by The Sweetwater Project (Sweetwater Reservoir Wetlands Habitat Recovery Project: Final Study 2014). If we could add this property as part of the National Wildlife Preserve, we could have a long protected area surrounding the Sweetwater Reservoir."

- Anne Stahl

"We oppose this sand mine!"

- Robyn Gilmore

"Stop the sand mine!"

- Patricia Matta

"Stop Cottonwood sand mine!"

- Zinah Matbachi

"How would this sand mine directly benefit the surrounding neighborhoods?"

- Tim Mitchell

"This project would be a disaster for the environment, for our health, and for the community."

- Bonnie Duncan

"I have a child and a parent with health issues; this will really affect our family. Please consider non-approval of this project for their sake!"

- Anmar Alsaffar

"Please count my voice as well as my wife's voice in saying that we fell this is a BAD idea and must be stopped."

- Sean McHugh

"We ask you to vote NO on this project!"

- Jeremiah Shultz

"It is unsafe and unhealthy to allow this project where there are a lot of children and elderly people nearby who have health problems such as allergies. Noise and traffic will also be very bad when everyone is going to school or work in the morning and afternoon."

- botabetula

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"This will devalue our properties significantly, create an eyesore, and add untenable noise pollution in our residential neighborhood."

- Dan Ursenbach

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"We are against the proposal to establish a sand mine project at Cottonwood Golf Club."

- Tony Casarrubia

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"NO to Cottonwood Sand Mine!"

- Michelle Granados

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"Please stop the Cottonwood sand mine; we do not need that in our community."

- Tom Kunac

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"My family and I live on Jamul Drive and are very much opposed to the sand mine proposal. There are already enough gravel trucks coming and going from Robertson's - we don't need to add to that. I am also highly concerned about the environmental impacts of the project as well as what it will do to the beauty of the area."

- Katy de Oliveira

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"I am concerned about health and environmental impacts of this project and would like to have this project stopped. This is not a healthy project for the residents of Rancho San Diego."

- Inna Bowler

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"Aside from all the other negative effects this project will have on the community, think of the negative environmental effect!!"

- Lily Charry

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"I can't believe this is being considered. This is an established community we're talking about. There are homes, schools, parks, etc. This would be an absolute environmental disaster. The citizens of Rancho San Diego will have their health in danger."

- Neil

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"I'm concerned about the environmental impact, both from the mining and from the increased truck traffic. That landscape is a beautiful resource to our whole community and should be preserved!"

- Miri Hutcherson

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"Keep our local golf course open! It's been here for over 40 years!"

- Justin Smith

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"I support the opposition to the Cottonwood Sand Mining project."

- Anita Reith

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"Stop this sand mine in Rancho San Diego!"

- Yousif Bibo

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"I oppose the mining project and want to help!"

- Alexi Olney

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"We are against sand mining at Cottonwood Golf Course."

- Patricia Taylor

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"No Mine! Save Cottonwood!!"

- Drew Strampfer

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"Save Cottonwood Golf Course!"

- Chris Ogilvy

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"Let's stop this unbelievably bad project that will forever impact life in Rancho San Diego and Jamul."

- Paul Dombkowski

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"We do NOT support the sand mine project!"

- Jannelle Ludlow

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"We appreciate the help of a legal team to help fight this."

- Rene' & Lauren Beauchamp

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"We can stop this! We should pressure the Valle de Oro Community Planning Group to form a subcommittee to look into acquiring Cottonwood Golf Course. We want the area turned into a recreational park since we have few parks in the area. Also, San Diego County needs places to offset development, per its climate action plan. People should call Nathan Fletcher's office and have them acquire the property with eminent domain. Imagine a beautiful park with hiking, roller skating, picnic tables, a small community center for local meetings, bridge clubs, exercise, tennis/pickleball courts, and bike paths. It would be a safe place to recreate."

- Jennifer Bergovoy

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"This project is an environmental disaster taking place in the middle of a rural residential community. The developer's draft EIR is completely inadequate and simply tries to dismiss very real concerns about noise, traffic, air pollution, and water pollution. The San Diego County Board of Supervisors must not approve this monstrosity."

- Joseph Duncan

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"Traffic on Campo Road is already horrible! This sand mine would make it impossible!"

- Brian Lester

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"I live less than a quarter mile from the Cottonwood Golf Course and my son attend Jamacha elementary school. Both my son and I have allergic sinusitis mostly from dust. Please stop this project for the safety of our children and our community."

- Lubna Hermez

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"My wife and I ride bikes on Willow Glen Drive by Cottonwood Golf Course frequently. The road is narrow for the amount of traffic and the existing trucking operation near the shooting range. The truck drivers are often discourteous and their mirrors are inches from the bike lane, in violation of state law. We do not need more trucks on Willow Glen Drive, not to mention the environmental disaster this project would spell for this pristine valley."

- John McCormick

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"Thanks for all you are doing!"

- Karen Flowers

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"We love our place in Rancho San Diego as it is, especially the parks, trees, and gardens. We don't need damage to our streets and to nature."

- Zahir Toma

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"As the former Air Pollution Control Officer (i.e. the agency's executive officer) of the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District (2008 to 2020), and with more than 39 years of air pollution experience with extensive experience mitigating public nuisances, I am vehemently opposed to the proposed sand mine project. This is because its deleterious impacts on air quality and human health cannot be avoided. I have personally visited the location and toured the site and know for a fact that the area and its residents and businesses will be irreparably harmed if it is allowed to become the home of a sand mine."

- Robert Kard

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"Stop this project now!"

- Linda Jurhs

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"How can any government entity approve such a project that will adversely affect many and benefit so few?! This project is not the best use of this land and hurts good hard working tax paying citizens. Stop this nonsense."

- Tim Brodowski

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"Having another sand mine in this bucolic area is a complete travesty. Our real estate values will lessen and tax revenue from those values will mean much less income for the schools, fire, police force, etc."

- Daniel Floyd

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"Please DO NOT allow the Cottonwood Sand Mine Project to pass! Vote against this proposal. Let's face it, the only person to profit from this awful project is the Greg Brown Group. They have no ties to the community other than to make a profit for themselves. As has been voiced by others, the traffic, truck pollution, mining pollution, destruction of habitat, ecological destruction, pathogens from digging, and more would have a detrimental effect on the land, humans and animals. This is not a good program whatsoever! Property values would plummet. This is a beautiful area, enjoyed by thousands of tax payers who have chosen to live here free from such an outrageously proposed and detrimental concept. There is NO need for this project! Vote NO!"

- John R. Marsh

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"Keep this area beautiful. No sand mining!"

- Bill & Cheyanne Frost

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"I was born and raised here for 58 years. I ride the mountain bike trails and fish at the Sweetwater reservoir. The negative impacts from such Sand Mine operation will cause catastrophic health issues for everyone in Rancho San Diego. Walking my dogs and hiking the trails would end completely. Stop this insanity and do not let this ever happen in our clean community. STOP Cottonwood Sand Mine!

- Chris Hollingsworth 

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"We don't want this! It is not a good thing for our community."

- Joe Tropp

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"This area is a beautiful wildlife habitat and an area used for public recreation. We don't need to lose another area that should be saved for people and wildlife."

- Yvonne Merrill

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"We are not in favor of the Cottonwood Mining Project. It is an aggregate grab with no benefit to the community. I would like it if the reclamation resulted in more open/recreational space for the community but that is not what is proposed."

- Jim Minnick

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"Stop this mine. We don't want it in our neighborhood."

- David Reed

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"I want the County to decline this property owner his request to begin a sand mine in my community. We are already running short on natural resources and we don't need further polluted ones and this sand mine will cause that. In addition, I don't need my property value going down any time soon. It's a scientific fact that massive amounts of dust will be created, therefore disease will be created. Children and community homeowners will be at risk and lawsuits will follow. This project is obviously doomed and will wreak havoc on this community. It is a lose lose situation. Please use common sense and decline this project in it's entirety."

- Mary Lou Garcia

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"The immediate and long-term impact to the safety of local residents and their visitors, the negative impact to the air quality for all people, the decrease to the value of homes and local businesses, the permanent damage to the environment and ecology - are all unacceptable! How could this project ever be permitted so close to an elementary school?"

- Jason Martinez

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"I have lived in Rancho San Diego for years. This sand mine will negatively impact our schools and the traffic. I'm in support to stop the sand mine!"

- Janice Jaboro

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"Sand mining ruins the environment, it pollutes the air, and the truck will destroy the roads. This is what happened near where I grew up."

- Kathleen Odom

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"Stop this project! This is all about money; no one is thinking about the residents and how this will affect them."

- Amar Ghazala

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"This will affect property values, the traffic, and destroy wildlife. I say five votes for NO SAND MINE at Cottonwood!"

- Erika McClees

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" I do NOT see any positive benefits from this sand mining location. There are other mining businesses nearby that can cover what this sand mining company wants to do. The loss of wildlife would be horrendous."

- Jody Dunn

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"We must stop this project from occurring! We must consider the environment, the roads we drive, the air we breath, houses all around the site, the wildlife, and the water that flows through this area. This sand mine will destroy life. It must stop!"

- Sallie Brown

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"We are opposed to this sand mine. This is a residential area. Willow Glen is already impacted by the trucks coming to and from Hester's quarry just down the road. The dust and pollution generated by this sand mine will be unacceptable. This land grab MUST be stopped!"

- Bill & Mary Difley

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"Stop this mine. We don't want it in our neighborhood."

- David Reed

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"There are few roads in and out of Jamul. The increased traffic with this project would make it even more unsafe."

- mumsiealso

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"I am very concerned about the crisis to our environment. I am also concerned about a lot of trucks going in and out of my neighborhood."

- Donna Swinehart

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"Mining sand in this area will decrease area property values, create environmental hazards, jeopardize kids and adults with asthma and other breating issues at Jamacha Elementary School and area homes. In addition, mining in this area will close businesses and create increased traffic. Stop this mine!"

- Michael Falcone

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"If a sand mine is built, there will be giant trucks everywhere dropping rocks and it will destroy the beautiful view."

- Isaac Bahri

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"Thanks you for informing us - we had no idea this was happening. The STOP Cottonwood Sand Mine.org signs in RSD got my attention. The video is excellent and website is well done. We need more people to be informed."

- Terri Podlenski

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"Me and my two roommates live in Jamul and oppose the Cottonwood Sand Mine. Please preserve nature and protect these native lands."

- Rachel

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"Cottonwood Golf Club could be a Pickleball Center with 20 courts, retail shops, restaurants, health spa, child care, and hiking trails. A San Diego tournament center for Pickleball. Professional players could be interested in investment opportunities. The County is looking for Pickleball sites."

- Ed Dove

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"The effect this sand mine, if approved, might have on the Wildlife Refuge would be devastating and irreversible. The Federal Government must help our fight against this disaster."

- Joe Duncan

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"My family of 5 is against the Cottonwood Sand Mine!"

- Holly Scalone

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"At some point you will reap what you sow (aka dig) - this sand mine will ruin the environment, animals, plants, and humans. The insatiable desire for money is saddening."

- Georgina Pastrana

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"We want this project stopped!"

- Heather Murphy

"Please stop this terrible project. We don't want our beautiful community ruined."

- Ryan Murphy

"Stop this terrible project now. It will bring tons of pollution and traffic to a quiet community. It will destroy important wildlife areas and our river which also supplies drinking water. STOP THIS NOW!"

- Pat Herron

"I support the effort to stop the cottonwood mine project. This is a horrible location for this project. I'm very passionate about supporting our local ecological reserves and will try to donate or help any way I can."

- Brandon Wheelock

"Stop this sand mining."

- Dave Wilkins

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"Besides all the negatives about the damage to Willow Glen Dr. and the increased traffic and dust, there is also the long term damage and health risk from the noise, pollution, loss of filtration to the aquifer, the loss of habitat to multiple endangered species. It is a long list of negatives. The sand pit will damage the environment irrevocably in the long run and covering the scars left by the mining operation will be lipstick on a dead pig. The long-term health concerns of people injured by the silica sand that will become airborne during the mining operation will adversely affect many residents such as those with compromised immune systems, children and the elderly who are more at risk and will have to be treated representing more health care costs (to San Diego County) in an economy that cannot care for its residents properly at this time."

- Karen Kain

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"The breeze/wind consistently blows east through this river bottom so everyone from Cottonwood to Sycuan will suffer from the dust generated by a sand mine - causing the air quality to be significantly reduced!

- Brad Lenz

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"No sand mine. It will ruin our lives."

- Maureen Rukgaber

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"My husband and I are 71 and 74 years old. We are both cancer survivors. Our immune systems are weakened from chemotherapy. A sand mine 1/4 mile from our home would greatly impact us. PLEASE DO NOT APPROVE A SAND MINE!

- Melinda Olever & Dave Roman

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"We would all be impacted as all Rancho San Diego residents will be impacted by a sand mine. We all experience Jamacha Road, Willow Glenn Drive, and the Chase backups due to full double trailer trucks having difficulty getting up to speed."

- Timothy Schneider

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"We don't need another mining operation here. We already have more than enough large dump trucks on our streets and dust contamination in the air that we're breathing. It's such a nice area to destroy and contaminate. I only wish the County could purchase this property and save nature for us to use as a natural area."

- Melvin Miguel

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"I am against this. It will ruin this rural area for eternity. If this was in La Jolla or Del Mar this issue would not even come up. Please don't ruin our community."

- Lezlie Hamrick-Smith

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"Lung Heath - Stop Cottonwood Sand Mine! This will have a direct impact on our respiratory health and this includes our pets. The windows of our homes will be closed all of the time to avoid the fine floating particles and our pools will be littered with debris from the sand mine. If you question the horridly loud noise, just go to the end of Wieghorst Way just off Fury in RSD where you will experience the old McGrath rock quarry which has been sold and now grinds asphalt. Yes, the business can change from a simple sand mine to something even worse. This kind of business has no place in residential areas or near schools where our children play outside daily."

- Kathy Hebert

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"I am opposed to the Cottonwood Sand Mine! This is an important river that feeds a drinking water reservoir. Our efforts should be on restoration, not destruction. Additionally, the area affected by the proposed operation is vast. The proposal is highly inappropriate."

- Cheryl Reiff

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"Please keep me updated with what's happening and what members of the public can do. Although I don't live there anymore, I grew up in the area and would hate for this damaging project to harm the community and wildlife."

- Adrienne

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"I've been seeing the signs around the community and I've known about this issue but I've finally looked into this and I'd like to know if there is anything else I can do to help. I love this community and the nature that surrounds it!"

- Adrian Theweny

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"I'm a local resident and want to help out. I would like to see ALOT more "Stop" signs put up."

- Paul O'Callaghan

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"Do not allow this project to go forward. It will negatively impact our peace, schools, roads, traffic, shopping, and lifestyle. It will create air and noise pollution. Our roads will be ruined by the large heavily-laden trucks carrying what will be removed from the Cottonwood Golf Club property. Do not allow this travesty to destroy our beautiful and peaceful community!"

- Rose Marie Peters

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"I called the police about a mass amount of garbage and homeless encampments along the Par 4 Trail fence line of the Cottonwood Golf Club property. We should investigate the environmental codes being violated by the owner of this property. I have taken photos. There is a huge mass of garbage along that waterway that eventually drains under the bridge and goes into the protected Nature Preserve. The owner does not monitor that section nor repair the fencing. The police said they will investigate for environmental hazards. There has been fire in that area, as well, due to the homeless encampments. In addition to the police, these environmental issues must be reported to the Water District, Fire Department, and Wildlife Refuge. About 5-10 years ago, the Water District spent a lot of money rehabilitating the endangered riparian environment near the dam. The polluted water flowing from the golf course is part of the Sweetwater Watershed which flows into the protected preserve and will contaminate the riparian environment the Water District was required to protect."

- Anne Stahl

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"Another Sand Mine is ridiculous! It ruins our roads and will destroy our property values. And, the property currently looks like crap!"

- Karen White-Filimon

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"Stop This Insanity! We, as a community, have chosen to live in the area because of its natural beauty. I have lived in San Diego all my life. Communities such as ours is a rarity now. Taking away this open space will kill our property values. No one ever wants to hear the possibility of such an unwanted commercial endeavor."

- Susan Halbert

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"Stop this nonsense!"

- Janice Paul

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"If they do manage to push this mine through, what public transportation is planned to help with the additional traffic? Any plans for noise mitigation?"

- Conrado Alarcon

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"This will bring more traffic and noise pollution. This disaster has to be stopped at all costs."

- Eduardo Macias

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"There may not be a lot of people who hike, bike and run the trail that listen to the music of the birds found along the riparian sections near Rancho San Diego. But we do and would surely miss their sweet sounds, especially since the sand mining would cause so much disturbance and noise. People moved out to the country for peace and quiet and to enjoy the sanctity and blessings of Nature. Don't be greedy SD County, if you need revenue, start by getting rid of overpaid 'administrators' and find a different solution to using cement that requires sand. Dominion of the earth by humans does not mean to do anything you want, it means to take care of and help it to prosper for the benefit of all species, not just humans. I hope this project is canceled, shame on you SD County for even thinking that this is good for the area that people and birds call home and love."

- Harriet R. Feria

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"Just seeing what is happening, we moved into Jamul 2 months ago and was never notified from our realtor that this is happening. We started seeing all the signs stop the sand mine at Cottonwood. We are on well water in Lawson Valley and I sure hope this doesn't get approved. The damage to our drinking water and the traffic it will make is just unthinkable. The owner of the golf course is just looking for quick "easy" money it seems like."

- Syndey Longfellow

"Don’t need any more rocks hitting my windshield."

- M. White

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"The proposed Project to turn a once beautiful Golf course in East County into a Sand Mining operation will have lasting detrimental effects on quality of life in the Rancho San Diego / Jamul area of our County. Many oxygen producing trees and wildlife will be sacrificed in order to economically extract the end product. Diesel truck pollution will affect the quality of life for miles around; especially close neighbors. Look what is happening in Barrio Logan where children are suffering from Asthma and COPD due to prolonged Diesel particulate exposure. Noise Pollution will lessen quality of life for close neighbors. Sand Mining is a noisy operation no matter the effort to 'tone it down.' Finally, the 'visual' of mechanical operations going on vs the beauty of a verdant environment as it exists today.... I'm hoping someone will step forward and purchase this land and preserve it as a Public Park for all to enjoy in perpetuity. Perhaps one of the Kumeyaay bands will come to the rescue?"

- Dave Beekman

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"Our list of 36 general concerns:
1. Noise pollution: Sand mining operations can generate loud noise due to heavy machinery, trucks, and equipment. Nearby residents may be concerned about the constant noise, especially if it continues during nighttime or disrupts their daily activities. 2. Dust and air pollution: Sand mining can produce a significant amount of dust, which may contain harmful particles and minerals. The dust can be carried by wind to surrounding areas, affecting air quality and potentially causing respiratory issues for nearby residents and workers. 3. Traffic congestion and road damage: Sand mining operations require a large number of trucks to transport the mined sand. This increased traffic can lead to congestion on local roads, potentially affecting the daily commute of residents and the accessibility of businesses. Moreover, heavy trucks can cause damage to roads, leading to increased maintenance costs. 4. Water table and groundwater concerns: Sand mining can disrupt the natural water table and aquifer systems. Residents may worry about the impact on their wells or the local water supply. Excavation activities can potentially lower the water table, affect nearby wells, and lead to water scarcity or contamination. 5. Visual impact and landscape alteration: The mining operation may change the visual aesthetics of the area, potentially impacting property values and the overall ambiance of the surroundings. Residents might be concerned about the alteration of natural landscapes and the visual impact of the mine on the community. 6. Environmental degradation and habitat destruction: Sand mining can have adverse effects on the environment, including the destruction of natural habitats, disruption of ecosystems, and disturbance of wildlife. Concerned residents may worry about the long-term ecological impact and loss of biodiversity in the area. 7. Health and safety risks: There could be concerns regarding the health and safety of residents, especially if proper safety measures are not followed at the mining site. Accidents, spills, or the improper handling of mining materials may pose risks to the nearby community. 8. Property value decline: Some residents may be concerned that the presence of a sand mine in the vicinity could lead to a decline in property values, potentially impacting their investments and financial well-being. 9. Community disruption and social impacts: The influx of mining personnel and the overall operation of the sand mine may disrupt the social fabric of the local community. Concerns may arise regarding increased crime rates, strain on local services and infrastructure, and changes in the community's character. 10. Environmental contamination: Sand mining operations can potentially result in the release of contaminants into the surrounding environment. Residents may worry about the pollution of nearby water bodies, soil, or vegetation due to chemical substances used in the mining process or accidental spills. 11. Impact on agriculture and farming: If the area surrounding the sand mine is used for agriculture or farming, concerns may arise about the impact on crop yields, soil quality, and water availability for irrigation. Dust, noise, and changes in the water table can affect agricultural productivity and livelihoods. 12. Negative impact on tourism and recreation: If the sand mine is located in an area known for its natural beauty or tourist attractions, residents and businesses might be concerned about the negative impact on tourism and recreational activities. The presence of a mining operation could deter visitors, leading to economic losses for local businesses reliant on tourism. 13. Loss of natural resources: Sand mining involves the extraction of a valuable natural resource, and concerns may be raised about the depletion of this resource over time. Residents may worry about the long-term sustainability of the mining operation and the potential exhaustion of the sand deposits in the area. 14. Land reclamation and rehabilitation: After sand mining activities cease, there may be concerns regarding the proper reclamation and rehabilitation of the land. Residents may want assurances that the land will be restored to its original state or repurposed for beneficial use, rather than being left as a barren or unused site. 15. Transparency and community engagement: Lack of transparency and communication between the sand mining company and the local community can lead to concerns and distrust. Residents may seek meaningful engagement, regular updates on the mining operation's activities, and opportunities to voice their concerns and provide input. 16. Potential for economic downturn: Some residents and businesses might worry that the sand mine's operation could negatively impact the local economy. They may fear reduced tourism, decreased property values, and the potential displacement of existing businesses due to changes in the community's economic dynamics. 17. Cumulative impacts: If there are already existing industrial or mining operations in the nearby area, residents and businesses may express concerns about the cumulative impact of multiple operations on the environment, public health, and quality of life. They may worry about the combined effects of various mines operating simultaneously. 18. Effects on wildlife and natural habitats: Residents may be concerned about the disruption or destruction of local wildlife habitats, including nesting grounds, migration routes, or breeding areas. They may worry about the impact on endangered or protected species in the region. 19. Potential for groundwater contamination: Sand mining operations may involve the use of chemicals or substances that can leach into the groundwater, posing a risk to drinking water sources. Residents might be concerned about the potential contamination of their well water or local water supply systems. 20. Occupational health and safety: Workers at the sand mine may face health and safety hazards due to the nature of the job, heavy machinery operation, or exposure to dust and chemicals. Concerned residents may express worries about the well-being of the workers and the adequacy of safety protocols at the mining site. 21. Socioeconomic disparities: Some residents might be concerned about the potential socioeconomic disparities resulting from the sand mining operation. They may worry that job opportunities, contracts, or benefits associated with the mine are not distributed equitably, leading to economic inequality within the community. 22. Long-term land use and land rights: Concerns may arise regarding the long-term use of the land after the mining operation ends. Residents might want assurances that the land will be appropriately repurposed or that their own land rights will be protected if the mine expands or requires land acquisition. 23. Vibrations and structural damage: Heavy machinery and blasting activities associated with sand mining can generate vibrations that may cause damage to nearby structures, including residential buildings and businesses. Concerns may be raised about the potential impact on property integrity and safety. 24. Emergency response and preparedness: Residents might express concerns about the readiness of the sand mining company to handle emergency situations such as fires, spills, or accidents. They may want reassurance that appropriate emergency response plans and resources are in place to mitigate any potential risks. 25. Cumulative noise and light pollution: If there are multiple industrial activities in the area, residents may be worried about the cumulative effects of noise and light pollution. The combination of sand mining operations and other nearby industries may contribute to a significant increase in noise levels and intrusive lighting, affecting residents' quality of life. 26. Legal compliance and enforcement: Concerns may arise about the sand mining operation's adherence to environmental regulations, permits, and licensing requirements. Residents might worry about the effectiveness of regulatory oversight and enforcement measures to ensure that the mining company operates within the boundaries of the law. 27. Effects on fishing and water-based activities: If the sand mine is near a water body used for fishing or recreational activities, residents may have concerns about the impact on fish populations, water quality, and the viability of their fishing or water-based businesses. 28. Reduced foot traffic: The presence of a sand mine can deter potential customers from visiting nearby businesses. Increased traffic from mining vehicles or road closures can make it difficult for customers to access the area, resulting in a decrease in foot traffic and potential loss of business. 29. Decline in sales: Businesses may experience a decline in sales as a result of reduced customer visits and decreased discretionary spending in the area. The disruption caused by the sand mining operation can lead to a shift in consumer behavior and a decrease in business revenue. 30. Supply chain disruptions: If businesses rely on regular deliveries or shipments, the increased traffic and congestion caused by sand mining operations can disrupt supply chains. Delays in receiving essential supplies or increased transportation costs can negatively impact the operations and profitability of nearby businesses. 31. Negative perception and reputation: The presence of a sand mine in close proximity to businesses can lead to a negative perception among customers and potential investors. The association with industrial activities or concerns regarding environmental impacts can harm the reputation of businesses and make it challenging to attract new customers or business opportunities. 32. Employee retention and recruitment challenges: The negative impacts and uncertainties associated with a nearby sand mine can affect employee morale and job satisfaction. Employees may be concerned about their health and safety, leading to retention challenges. Moreover, the negative image of the area due to the mining operation can make it difficult to attract new talent to local businesses. 33. Increased operating costs: Businesses near a sand mine may experience increased operating costs due to various factors. This can include higher utility bills, increased insurance premiums, additional security measures, or investments in mitigation efforts to address the impacts of the mining operation. 34. Disruption of business activities: Noise, dust, and vibrations from the mining operation can disrupt the normal functioning of nearby businesses. The constant disturbances can make it challenging for employees to focus on their work and for customers to have a pleasant experience, leading to potential disruptions in day-to-day business activities. 35. Property devaluation: The presence of a sand mine can result in a decline in property values in the surrounding area. This can have a direct impact on businesses that own or lease properties, potentially affecting their assets and long-term viability. 36. Limited expansion opportunities: The proximity of a sand mine may limit the potential for business expansion or attract new investors. Concerns about the stability of the area, environmental impacts, or changes in the local economic landscape can deter businesses from pursuing growth opportunities in the vicinity."

- Li Gao

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"​This is the wrong industrial grade business in the wrong residential and country environment at the wrong time, and benefits the community in no way. It instead harms and degrades our quality of life snd the environment. It must be blocked."

- Nicholas & Mary Paul 

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"This sand mine must be stopped!"

- Craig Hendricks

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"STOP destroying our land! We are opposed to the Cottonwood Golf Club turning into a sand mine in the middle of our beautiful residential community of Rancho San Diego."

- Zahir Toma

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"Stop the Cottonwood Sand Mine. I do not approved of this proposed project."

- Barbara Foster

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"We already have added traffic affecting this entire area. The congestion around Rancho San Diego and La Mesa have tripled in the last few years. Especially with the Jamul casino and multiple schools in the area. This would hugely affect the traffic we already have not to mention the noise of these giant proposed trucks. It's a negative situation for all who live near and around Cottonwood. It also will greatly reduce the home prices in the area."

- Laura Hawthorne

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" Willing to help in any way possible to stop this."

- Sarah Mikhael

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"I vote NO on this proposal to have a sand mine in our community. We love Rancho San Diego just the way it is. Besides, my daughter has asthma and if she is affected by the sand mine, I will be suing."

- Cristina Ancheta

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"I was proud to join hundreds of Rancho San Diego residents in voicing strong opposition to the proposed Cottonwood Sand Mine. The project proposes to operate a sand mine and processing plant in the middle of a residential neighborhood in the Jamacha Valley of the Sweetwater River. It will have devastating environmental impacts to the surrounding area, which includes schools, homes, and a wildlife preserve. As your next County Supervisor, my position is clear; we must draw a line in the sand - NO to the Cottonwood Sand Mine."

- Janessa Goldbeck

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