[Madison, Wisc…] Throughout the mining debate in Wisconsin, opponents build arguments around assumptions that mining will bring nothing but problems to their communities. At a hearing in Madison last week, many of these assumptions were invoked in an attempt to “what if” the industry to death. Ashland County Administrator Jeff Bierl stated he was in favor of responsible mining, but believes the county is not equipped to handle an expanding economy and that private investment in the area will lead to sufficient local tax revenue.