A group of lawmakers, mayors, and council members are opposing Mosaic’s proposal to use phosphogypsum, a byproduct of their operations, in roadbeds. The phosphate industry, which includes Mosaic, has been in Florida for over a century. The industry has faced challenges in safely disposing of its waste, which often accumulates in large mounds. These mounds can potentially contaminate surrounding waterways. An option being considered by the industry is to incorporate the waste into roadbeds.
However, this proposal is meeting resistance from some of Florida’s decision-makers. They argue that the phosphate industry’s portrayal of this waste use as environmentally friendly is potentially misleading. They claim the industry has a significant environmental impact. Several state representatives, including Lindsay Cross, Anna Eskamani, and Rita Harris, oppose the proposal. Other opponents include Yvonne Hinson, Michele Rayner, Felicia Robinson, Susan Valdes, and Katherine Waldron.
State Senators Lori Berman and Geraldine Thompson have also expressed their opposition. Mayors Teri Johnston, Brent Latham, James Rostek, Joshua Rydell, Judy Titsworth, and Teresa Heitmann are also against the proposal.
Several city commissioners and council members from across Florida, including Vice Mayor Mark Grill, Vice Mayor Anna Hochkammer, Commissioner Christopher Collins, Commissioner Adriane Elliot, and Commissioner Jeremy Katzman, are also on the list of opponents.