BELLE MINA, Ala. — Residents of Belle Mina hoping for good news Thursday will have to wait at least one more day before they learn whether their efforts to stop a controversial quarry operation have succeeded.
The dispute centers on the use of property located east of I-65, near the intersection of Mooresville and Garret Roads. The area is just a stone's throw from several churches and private farms.
Work on that quarry was just getting started when a judge last week put a short-term restraining order in place, pausing all mining activity just long enough for a court hearing that could lead to a more lasting ruling.
However, Thursday's session at the Limestone County Courthouse dragged on all day - stalled at one point by a medical emergency involving a key player in the hearing.
By day's end, several people on both sides of the issue had testified, including contractors who support the position of developer Grayson Carter & Son, and others for the plaintiffs, nearby property owners.
One witness gave testimony behind closed doors, an unusual move that was approved because of "special privacy concerns."
By sundown, attorneys were making closing arguments.
Late Thursday, it was learned the temporary restraining order was extended so the judge could give due consideration to Thursday's testimony before making a final ruling.