RHINELANDER - Frustrations were clear at the latest meeting on mining in the town of Lynne. After 3 years of discussion, many people shared their disappointment at the lack of progress on the issue, one way or another.

Most members of the audience expressed concerns about mining, and the way in which mining is being considered. But it seems nearly everyone agreed more information needs be made available to the public

The Onieda County Forestry committee on Mining debated which questions to move toward a public referendum in November.

They also discussed what place a member of the Lac du Flambeau tribe should have during the discussions, and whether they would have a vote on mining issues.

Members of the public continue to request public hearings on the matter, and more information from unbiased experts before moving forward with the bidding process.

"Right now the committee is just entirely biased for a mining lease, and people are not going to be listened to and they're not going to be able to reach an objective conclusion otherwise," said Rhinelander area resident, Karl Fate.

Representatives from the mining industry cautioned the committee to not throw away a valuable opportunity.

“Obviously something that would create jobs...I really believe that the state of Wisconsin has very stringent rules, environment rules, and I think if all of those are followed people don’t have a need to be worried about the environment," said Tamerlane Ventures consultant, Lynne Broydrick.

The question of whether the county should proceed with the bidding process in exploring the Lynne mine will now go to the Oneida county board for consideration. If the board approves, that questions will then go be put forth to the public, in a referendum on the November ballot.

Story By: Kailey Burton