US (CA): Residents protest against expanded operations at Viva Farms greenhouse

Residents of Camino Caballo and its side streets used the Central Coast Greenhouse Growers Association Open House on Saturday, April 13, as an opportunity to stage a protest over expanded operations at a greenhouse facility on Viva Way. The residents say the addition of a plant warehouse and distribution center at Viva Farms has resulted in a daily stream of 20 to 30 big-rigs along Camino Caballo.

They say the big-rigs not only pose a danger to pedestrians, bicyclists and equestrians but also disturb the tranquility of the rural neighborhood both day and night.

The protest did not target Viva Farms, per se, said Nancy Shipley, a spokeswoman for residents and neighbors who want the warehouse and distribution operation relocated. Instead, she said, it was aimed at the San Luis Obispo County Department of Planning and Building and Code Enforcement Division for permitting the operation.

County planning officials have said the use is consistent with greenhouse operations that are permitted under the zoning code. But residents say warehouses and distribution centers are not allowed in rural residential zoning, regardless of the product. Shipley said the picketers also targeted 4th District Supervisor Paul Teixeira, who they say has not represented constituents in their efforts to halt the heavy truck traffic.

Source: theadobepress.com