A routine request led to a veiled threat at the Town of Lunenburg’s last council meeting.
Director of ABCO, Jason Huskilson appeared before council to ask that his company be excluded from the Architectural Control Zone being considered by the town.
Huskilson says proposed restrictions in the zoning present a challenge as ABCO is looking to double their manufacturing footprint.
“To be clear, if ABCO is forced to operate under the by-law in question, the growth of ABCO will be stagnated, and we the owners may need to find another path.”
Huskilson argued his buildings are in a marine industrial zone, the same as the neighbouring foundry, and should be allowed to expand their business without having to go through a public hearing at council.
“I will not go to a public process to expand my company. The Marine Industrial Zoning allows as-of-right expansion. We want to be afforded those rights unencumbered.”
The proposed Architectural Control Zone limits expansion of a building to 25 percent over the existing size.
ABCO, Lunenburg October 25, 2019
After initially agreeing to speak to our newsroom, Huskilson has refused to be interviewed for this story.
Lunenburg’s Mayor says the town would love ABCO to grow and prosper and doesn’t want to unduly hinder that process.
Rachel Bailey says the proposed changes to the zoning are part of a review aimed at bringing their bylaws up to date.
Council decided to address ABCO’s concerns at the next Planning Advisory Committee.
“We certainly took that very seriously, that they are considering an expansion of their business and are looking for more space on their property to be able to expand, and that’s a very positive thing.”
Many people leaving Tuesday’s council meeting were upset they weren’t given the opportunity to voice their concerns about ABCO’s proposal.
Some had mistaken this request for a zoning exemption with a previous request ABCO made before council concerning infilling part of the harbour to accommodate a proposed mixed commercial/residential development. (See stories here and here.)
Bailey says residents will have the chance to comment when Huskilson’s request is discussed at the next meeting of the PAC.
“Anyone can stand up. I think the only requirement is, basically, that you introduce yourself. You’re invited to offer your opinion and your ideas or concerns. They are duly recorded and given consideration by the committee.”
Rachel Bailey says council is looking for public input on whether the Architectural Control Zones should be changed or even expanded.
Reported by: Ed Halverson
Twitter: @edwardhalverson
E-mail: halverson.ed@radioabl.ca
