CBRM council should make rezoning the next trend
On March 7, Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM) council and Mayor Cecil Clark voted to rezone farm land in Big Pond Centre so the process of developing an RV park and campground on the Bras d’Or Lake could go through the first hurdle.
Let’s draw some parallels, shall we? Let’s think about rezoning some land in Sydney and other areas as well. Seems like what’s good for the rural may be good for the urban. Why not?
I propose over the next few years buying several properties near homes of the mayor and some councillors. Perhaps, also, next to those who are so much in favour of this project. As we know the opinion is often different when the shoe is shoved on the other foot.
When enough plots have been procured an application must go forward to rezone this property to urban farm land. It is the new trend after all. Farm land is disappearing and urban farming will be a necessity. It won’t lower property values or affect quality of life.
If local residents are against this rezoning, not to worry. They will have their democratic right to present to council and their voices will be heard. Of course, that doesn’t mean they will be listened to, but the process will be followed. Plus, their voices are not the most important consideration here. We need development and money in Cape Breton. Even a hint of the promise of money is enough. It doesn’t matter where on the island it goes or what type of development.
I believe the perfect business plan would be something on a larger scale. Perhaps a pig farm, a chicken farm, an abattoir or, better still, a mink farm. Don’t worry, Mr. Mayor and councillors, there will be very few noxious fumes such as those that are likely to be emitted by the proposed RV park, which threaten a local organic farm bordering the property. I have to admit the smell may be a bit unpleasant, but not toxic. We will ensure that a few shrubs are planted to block the odour.
Just imagine the number of jobs this would provide, not to mention food for the table produced locally in Cape Breton. Mink, specifically, would take in a lot of money. Pelts could be shipped from the port to overseas locations where such commodities are still in demand. I think we should go for all of the previously mentioned factory farms.
I don’t think such an opportunity should be turned down. We don’t want people to think that Cape Breton is closed to development of any type. What kind of message would we be sending? After all what’s good for the goose is good for the gander.
Elizabeth MacLeod
Herring Cove and part-time Big Pond resident