Two key Polymet permits remain suspended as Appeals Court considers issues

The state Court of Appeals says two key environmental permits for the proposed PolyMet copper-nickel mine near Hoyt Lakes will remain suspended until the judges decide whether additional scrutiny of that project is necessary. Opponents are pleased, saying it ensures no destruction of natural resources occurs until the court weighs the issues. Nancy Norr with the group Jobs for Minnesotans responds, “I think that’s an overstatement… to suggest that the stay on these permits is somehow preventing this company from mining. It wasn’t their plan to be mining right now anyway.” Norr says she’s confident there’s been a thorough environmental review and that the permits are valid and will be re-instated.