§ 19-2. Findings.

The board of county commissioners finds that:

(1)

Mining and reclamation of mined lands as provided by this chapter will allow the proper and orderly development of the county's resources and provide for the protection of the environment and for the subsequent beneficial use of the mined and reclaimed land;

(2)

The severance, processing, treatment, and transportation of solid minerals by mining is an established and important factor in the economy of the county;

(3)

It is not possible to sever the solid minerals required by our society without disturbing the earth's surface and producing waste materials;

(4)

It is possible to conduct mining operations in such a way as to minimize the effects on the surrounding environment;

(5)

Proper reclamation of land upon which mining has terminated is necessary to mitigate permanent undesirable land and water conditions that would be detrimental to the general health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of the county;

(6)

The county is home to numerous threatened and endangered species and species of special concern and their habitat;

(7)

Known wetlands exist which provide necessary habitat for these species;

(8)

The regulations contained in this chapter are reasonable and necessary to protect the natural environment and the public health, safety and general welfare of the citizens of the county;

(9)

Under the common law of the State of Florida, the adopted county comprehensive plan and § 163.3167(8), Florida Statutes, existing mining operations are entitled to certain protections and exemptions from new regulations; and

(10)

Consistent with and in furtherance of the common law, the adopted comprehensive plan and Chapter 163, Florida Statutes, this chapter recognizes that the board of county commissioners have approved master mining plans for each of the existing mining operations and that the authorizations, terms and conditions reflected in the approved master mining plans shall control when the authorizations, terms and conditions conflict with or are inconsistent with the provisions or standards of this chapter.

(Ord. No. 93-13, § A-2, 6-29-93)