More on 'East Hill bylaw zoning amendment application to the Regional District of East Kootenay adding “solar energy facility” to the list of permitted uses

Editor's Comment

While it is doubtful any person would be opposed to solar energy, the placement and construction of such a light industrial facility requires careful planning.  Planning for facilities such as the Kimberley sun mine located on 'brown field', a previously contaminated piece of land close to the old tailings ponds from the Kimberley lead and zinc mine would seem to make good common sense.  There are more 'brown field' sites in this area and the City of Cranbrook has more than one old dump site. Some question the proposal to add such a use to green forested property within clear sight of the City of Cranbrook.  No details have been provided with this application and until such details are provided there remain many questions and no assurances.

Regarding the East Hill bylaw zoning amendment application to the Regional District of East Kootenay. Adding “solar energy facility” to the list of permitted uses for that RR-60 zone would allow a utility scale “solar energy facility” to be constructed over some or all of the 6,600 acre property, larger than the size of the City of Cranbook. For City Council and RDEK Directors to suggest that Cranbrook and area residents interests would not be affected by such a potentially massive and visually intrusive development overlooking the east side of the City is misleading.  What assurances are being given to area residents beyond promises by a land owner that cannot be upheld after the bylaw is passed?

Once the bylaw is adopted, there are no opportunities for any further input by area residents or the City of Cranbrook.

The response period:  Address your letter to the RDEK Board of Directors, 19 - 24 Avenue N., Cranbrook, BC V1C 3H8.  They must receive it by April 26th.  Provide your name and address.  (Someone from outside the area might not carry the same weight as a local person.)

The Public Hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, April 26, at 7:00 PM in the RDEK Board room.

Procedure:  You will have an opportunity to express your views but there will be no debate. Comments are recorded but letters tend to hold more weight. It’s important to be respectful and objective. 

If nobody shows up to the hearing, the RDEK would be right in assuming there is no interest in this item

The Public Hearing is our only opportunity to voice concerns.  The Public Hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, April 26, at 7:00 PM in the RDEK Board room.

For additional information contact Sharon Cross, 250-489-4412.