To keep up to date with this breakdown of news in the United States and Canada, visit www.AggMan.com for daily updates.

Arizona

Maricopa County’s Air Quality Department staff presented a draft policy that proposes that applicants for new and modified permits conduct an impact analysis of PM10 dust emissions on air quality. The Arizona Republic reports that if the emission is equal to or exceeds a significant impact level, then a cumulative analysis kicks in. County Permit Division Manager Doug Erwin told the newspaper that the policy “will give us the authority to deny permits.” The county exceeds the federal standard for dust emissions, and the policy is part of a county “5-percent plan” submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency for approval. Members of the sand and gravel industry oppose the policy. “This policy must be based on science and not assumptions,” said Steve Trussell, executive director of the Arizona Rock Products Association. “We are absolutely opposed to it because of what it will unintentionally create.”

California

Graniterock is hosting its Third Annual Construction Career Day on May 14 at its A.R. Wilson Quarry in Aromas. The day is designed for Santa Cruz County high school students and will highlight career paths in the construction industry. The day will include a tour of the quarry. Bruce W. Woolpert, president and CEO of Graniterock, will address the students. Afterward, more than 25 different professionals will offer presentations on various construction and green building occupations.

California

Residents in Davenport will pay substantially more for utilities following the closure of Cemex’s plant, which had long managed and largely paid for the community’s water and sewer service. According to the Santa Cruz Sentinel, residents and businesses could now pay hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars more each year. The county’s Public Works records indicate that sewer rates could increase nearly 75 percent, with a flat residential fee of approximately $2,500 per year. Water rates could rise 10 percent, with a flat annual fee of $1,500 for households. The charges are levied on twice-a-year property tax bills. Businesses could face even more significant hikes.

Illinois