Past news reported 690 Vidalia jobs expected: LAEL expected 150 (The Natchez Democrat, May 12, 2008),  Desai hotel, 40 jobs, summer 2015 (The Natchez Democrat,  Feb. 21, 2014), Port expected operational June 2017, 200 jobs (KNOE 8, June 9. 2016),   Project Blue, expected April 2017, full operation first quarter 2018, 300 jobs (Concordia Sentinel, March 9, 2017).  Where are these jobs? 

May 8, 2018, aldermen reported calls about “project pencil.”  Mayor offered  “anyone” information about the project at “any time” leading to unofficial meeting: four officials and 7 citizens attended. 

Questions centered on health and environmental concerns and “due diligence.” Group requested public hearing and documentation.  Mayor agreed to allow use of town facility to meet.  I have no doubt that the mayor has good intentions.  I question whether clear evidence exists that officials have indeed “done their homework.” 

Reluctance to openly address public concerns — red flag. It’s a wrong decision being that public opinion is affected by information (or misinformation) that may be available. Public opinion has been formed by hearsay alone.

On May 15, Save Concordia Parish held a public information meeting about Syrah Project. I don’t question presenter’s credentials, accuracy of information presented or conclusions reached. 

Citizens legitimately want further consideration of this project’s viability.  Meeting was open to public, local officials invited to attend and some present.  Mayor in attendance after fulfilling another commitment, recognized by the planners and offered opportunity to speak. 

Comments and questions, both pro and con, were heard.  Thought-provoking discussions on social media and other sources have occurred since, including input from many who are — or may be — knowledgeable by experience or training.  We’ve seen an informal poll, a petition and news articles.  Chemist reports have been requested. 

Correspondence between Vidalia and Cenla lists “proposed effluent” for project pencil; includes a handwritten question as to whether our lagoon could handle greater volume. 

Chemist’s reply states concerns, none differ from citizen concerns, and none contradict the presentation.  That reply is factual, indicating present and short-term capability is probably adequate.  It doesn’t address air quality.  It’s woefully short of necessary “due diligence,” as it doesn’t reflect that tests have really been done. 

Time with mayor, including a wastewater facility tour alleviated some, not all, of my concerns. I question efforts to push the project through, without public comment and hearing. 

We know little about future infrastructure investments required of our utilities. Is this a “pig in a poke”?  A bill of goods?

It is important that we, the people, are given opportunity to consider all aspects of the issue and to participate in the decision-making process.  The sale is a private transaction, but service to that facility cost to our town is our business.  There is time. Be skeptical of hearsay. Get involved. 

Ray Ainsworth

Vidalia