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‘Bunker’ rezoning decision is important to Creston's future

Proposed bistro/distillery a chance for light industry, jobs, new tax base and revitalized main street in Creston...

To the Editor:

On April 14, Creston town council will be burdened with a decision as to what to do with 801 Vancouver St., or as all residents call it, the “bunker”. There is a proposal from Chaplin West Ventures to build a craft distillery and bistro on the existing cement structure. For this to happen, the property needs to be rezoned by the town to mixed-use commercial. There have been concerns of odour and noise from neighbours, like the Presbyterian Church across the street. I think with Highway 3 and the railway across the street, noise and odour should not be much of a concern for the neighbours. Odours and noise can be dealt with by using the technology that is available, such as quiet fans and scrubbers.

With the town office full of knowledgeable staff, I’m sure concerns can be addressed. The property has been an eyesore since it was built in 2001. Now, 14 years later, I urge the new council to work with the developer to make something happen on this property. You are a fresh council that has the opportunity to fix mistakes made by past council on this property. Every one of you stood up at the candidates’ forum last fall and said that Creston needs light industry, jobs, a new tax base and to revitalize the main street. Here is your chance to make it happen. Or do we have to look at this eyesore for another 14 years? The time is now.

Tom Olenczuk

Creston