Historically, frivolous lawsuits have been a favorite weapon of developers and the mining and logging industries throughout the country, to use against members of the public who actively oppose their projects. Known as "SLAPP" suits, Strategic Litigation Against Public Participation,these actions are designed to deplete citizens' time, energy, courage, and finances.
Ringwood is no stranger to SLAPP suits. Over the years, local developer Gregory Czura, on behalf of his partnerships with Pat Wallace, initiated several SLAPP suits against various individuals opposing sewer/high density housing projects planned by the developers. In 1994 Czura SLAPP-sued an officer of CLEAN, and others opposed to his Skyline Drive high density housing project in Ringwood.
In 1995, quarry operator Braen SLAPP-sued CLEAN, West Brook Alliance (homeowners living near the quarry) and individuals from both groups for challenging his logging and opposing the nature and intensity of his extraction activities.
All of these frivolous lawsuits were eventually dismissed, but they cost time and money. Skylands CLEAN will not give in to such bullying tactics. We shall continue our efforts to promote open government, and to protect the environment and quality of life in Ringwood and the Highlands region.
email us at clean@skyclean.org