An application to City of Chilliwack for an abattoir to be built on agricultural land was withdrawn by the applicant at the last minute.
The proposal was for a beef processing facility on Brannick Place that would handle about 100 cattle a day.
A public hearing for the text amendment that was originally slated for Sept. 15 was cancelled on Monday.
Brian Bilkes of Meadow Valley Meats said the company still intends to build a facility, but the location is still unclear.
The online comments about the proposed slaughter house idea were both negative and positive, but many remarked it was a good idea but not in that spot, and some were concerned about odours that would emanate from it.
The location of the abattoir, in behind some businesses, close to Yale and Airport, was an issue for one social media commenter:
“Why in town at all? Should be in rural area,” said Gina Ellis.
Others saw it differently.
“It’s the perfect place for this agricultural meets industrial activity,” commented Collin Rogers, adding to the online reaction.
The applicant initially was seeking to expand the existing Agricultural Food Processing zone to allow construction of a 22,000-square-foot beef processing facility.
The Chilliwack Agricultural Commission wrote a support letter, noting the project “would support opportunities for a strong, viable and profitable meat industry in British Columbia” and the proponent reassured city officials there would be efforts made to contain any odours.
The proposal also had the support of the British Columbia Cattleman’s Association and the BC Food Processors Association.
jfeinberg@theprogress.com
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