An open letter to those denouncing shipment of the toxic chemicals as a viable alternative to Incineration and Assembled Chemical Weapons Alternative (ACWA).

The hue and cry against this solution is voiced by all parties who are responsible for the lengthy extended time and increased cost of chemical demil--our business commnity; politicians serving local, state and federal offices; special interest groups; media; and the Citizens Advisory Commission (CAC).  

None of the aforementioned decriers have ever used their exclusive power and influence for the democratic process to allow the pubolic to decide how to dispose of the chemicals.

It is sad commentary after 15 years we are still denied stake holder's rights for democratic choices among the options of shipment, neutralization, destruction by the best available technology as soon as possible, or ACWA.  The first three measures are especially pertinent since 9/11 when the stockpile was defined as a terrorist target.

Legislation to block a feasibility study on transportation of chemical weapons and to outlaw and criminalize their movement is tantamount of the politicians, et al. in effect saying "to hell with the publics view, only we can have the collective wisdom to speak for your sefety."  Is their clamoring against shipment based upon safety concerns or a grab for federal dollars?  Billions in demil costs would be saved by moving the chemical stockpile from Madison County and the imminent danger would be removed posthaste.

Citizens have been held hostage and ignored for far too long.  Essentially this:  Stand up for a referendum or shut up!

William R. Scrivner
Richmond