June 26, 2009
The Ministry of Agriculture recently hosted a Public Information meeting in
Grindrod to explain the details of a proposed Organic Recycling Facility in the area.
Following that meeting the Regional District of North Okanagan received many
strong expressions of concern over the possible impacts of the operation.
In response to the public concern, Regional District staff initiated a series of
enquiries with the agencies involved, to clarify details of the proposal. To be clear,
the Regional District of North Okanagan has neither approved the proposal nor has
been requested to approve it.
The Regional District has, however, been advised by the agencies involved and by
the proponent that they believe that the facility complies with all Regional District of
North Okanagan land use regulations and other regulations. The Regional District
of North Okanagan, however, was not requested to provide a specific opinion on
whether the proposed facility complies.
In light of the public concern, the Regional District of North Okanagan has been in
communication with the agencies and the proponent, and advised that, in their
view, this proposal, at the proposed site, may not completely comply with Regional
District of North Okanagan zoning and other land use regulations.
Regional District staff are continuing discussions with the agencies and legal
counsel to both confirm their initial assessment, and determine whether the
proposed facility fully complies. If it does not comply, an application will be
required to the Regional District which will include the normal public consultation
process.
Therefore, at this point, the Regional District of North Okanagan is not taking a
position opposing the development of this type of facility. Chair Halvorson
confirms that “The RDNO recognizes the need for such facilities to support both
agricultural interests in the community, and the food industry in processing and
disposal of food waste.
We must however, ensure a balance where both the local public interests are
properly considered and addressed while ensuring that fair consideration and due
process is given to the private interests of a proponent for such a facility.”
In order to ensure the balance of public and private interest is achieved, staff will
be investigating the land use and other regulatory controls related to the proposal,
in consultation with affected agencies and the proponent. In order to ensure that
the due process and private rights of the proponent are also guarded, the Regional
District is not prepared at this time to accept submissions or delegations to the
Board.
Staff will be preparing a report on the matter and further information will be
provided to the public in due course.
