The town of Martinsburg's decision to approve the asphalt plant without consideration to all the environmental, health and safety issues was an unexpected/undeserved blow to the whole town and should be a wake-up call for change.

The methods used for approval, the industrial gap in the code system, the planning process and the town board's refusal to act responsibly have all cast a dim light on the Martinsburg community both present and future. By failing to recognize the basic responsibilities to protect and provide a safe, healthy environment for all citizens and the town's failure to act in a responsible, ethical, trustworthy manner has only darkened the situation and placed the responsibility for community protection on outside sources.

The state Department of Environmental Conservation is accepting any and all comments in regard to environmental, safety and health concerns surrounding the Whitaker Road project prior to May 8 before deciding on whether to issue a permit to operate. Please comment. Address comments to NYSDEC, 317 Washington St., Watertown, N.Y. 13601, attn: Mr. Larry Ambeau.

Even after board members were questioned about pending state approval at the March board meeting, this fact was not divulged by the town. Again, the board and the town attorney were silent, and again we are asking ourselves why.

Jon and Lynn Thisse

Glenfield