The Town of Lakeshore has released a draft set of bylaws aimed at mitigating resident concerns over commercial greenhouses. The topic has been highly debated throughout the municipality over the past year, with the clock ticking on a moratorium allowing any such operations.
Residents have expressed concerns over perceived light pollution, odor, and wear and tear on infrastructure noted in neighboring communities where such greenhouses have set up shop – even passing around a petition to demand an outright ban. In December, the council opted not to ban but instead draft strict bylaws to address concerns. A draft of those proposed bylaw amendments was sent to the council recently and can be found online here.
Highlights of the proposed bylaw amendments include:
- Measures to mitigate lighting, odor, traffic, and other adverse effects.
- Limiting potential greenhouses around urban areas.
- Setback and buffer requirements are designed to protect adjacent properties, and sensitive land uses.
- Prohibitions on stockpiling waste and use of well water, as well as requirements for detailed waste management plans and fertigation water recycling.
Prior to permitting large-scale greenhouse developments, Lakeshore would also seek:
- A regional stormwater study to identify a common release rate on the various watersheds.
- A stormwater discharge quality monitoring program.
- A municipal financial impact analysis.
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