There appears to be broad support for a Grindrod company’s expansion plans.
About 150 people attended an Agricultural Land Commission meeting Tuesday to discuss North Enderby Timber’s application to swap property for industrial activities.
“It was a packed house,” said Jackie Pearase, Regional District of North Okanagan director.
“There was huge support for the mill. It was about 50 people (in favour) speaking to five (against) with some sitting on the fence.”
North Enderby Timber wants to exclude 4.9 hectares adjacent to its Highway 97A site from the Agricultural Land Reserve so it can be used for a log storage yard and dry kiln.
In return, the company wants to convert a former 4.9-hectare log sort yard on Crandlemire Road into agricultural capabilities.
The company is concerned that if it doesn’t replace a kiln that was destroyed by fire in 2012, it could lose customers.
However, some residents are concerned about noise and dust on Highway 97A and reclamation of the Crandlemire Road site.
“Some of the issues being brought up already exist about the mill,” said Pearase.
RDNO directors had been warned by district staff not to endorse North Enderby Timber’s plans during Tuesday’s meeting because if the ALC approves the application, the company must then apply to RDNO for rezoning amendments and a development permit.
Staff suggested directors endorsing the company’s proposal at the ALC session could lead to some residents believing directors are not being objective when they consider zoning changes.
Pearase did not speak at the meeting Tuesday.
“It’s the ALC’s decision at this point so I sat back and listened. I am keeping an open mind,” she said.
Greg McCune, an Enderby councillor, did make a presentation.
“I spoke as a business owner and resident of the area,” he said.
“We struggle to keep the community sustainable and without employers, it’s difficult to plan,” he said.
“They are a good corporate citizen and they employ a lot of people.”
