Major opposition heard in Nanaimo at second Cable Bay public hearing

Nanaimo Forest Products (NFP), which operates Harmac Pacific pulp mill, is attempting to rezone the majority of 950 Phoenix Way.

Approval of this rezoning would allow NFP to plan for heavy industrial use near the Duke Point industrial strip, not far from the rural community of Cedar.

Key rezoning conditions include an average 100 metre buffer zone of parkland along the western edge of Cable Bay Trail, or roughly 28 acres.

950 Phoenix Way, shaded in red, is proposed to be rezoned by Nanaimo Forest Products for agricultural industrial development. (Image Credit: City of Nanaimo)

Those opposed cited environmental concerns related to the loss of forested lands, impacts on water quality, and potential chemical run-off reaching the ocean.

“We want them to be able to breathe fresh air, see the stars, take their dog for a walk, see orcas and other animals at Dodds Narrows,” David Thompson, a Cedar resident, said. “This will have such an impact on the ecological treasures that we are lucky to call home, and this would be a devastating loss should this area not be preserved.”

Many speakers referenced the recent oil spill caused by a Duke Point area facility in January as an example of potential environmental impacts of heavy industry.

Impacts on the tourism industry if natural areas are affected were also a repeated concern.

Immediately before Wednesday’s public hearing, Snuneymuxw First Nation (SFN) released a statement, “strongly” advising the City not to breach their treaty rights by approving this rezoning without First Nation consent.

Chief Michael Wyse said it’s no longer a time when heavy industrial development takes precedent over the environment or First Nation rights.

“This approach is outdated and unlawful. Development on our Treaty-protected sites cannot proceed without our free, prior and informed consent. Our Nation is not opposed to economic development in our territory and understands the importance of aligning British Columbia’s goals in industrial development with recognition and implementation of Snuneymuxw rights.”

Wyse said they “will take whatever steps necessary to defend our rights, our lands and our way of life.”

Several SFN members were at the public hearing and once again spoke against the proposal, including Elder Lolly Good, who said she opposes the rezoning application on their “sacred land.”

Wednesday’s public hearing again concluded at 11 p.m., with more speakers registered to voice their opinion.

It will continue on Thursday, April 30, at 7 p.m. at the VICC, with no further written submissions being accepted following the April 16 deadline.

Upon conclusion of the public hearing process, Council will consider third reading of the proposed rezoning, either immediately or at a future meeting.

Potential fourth reading and adoption would not occur until Nanaimo Forest Products meets the necessary conditions, likely taking a few months, according to the City.

– with files from Ian Holmes and Alex Rawnsley.

Editor’s note: Accurate spellings of speakers’ names during the public hearing were not readily available, and any errors are unintentional. Those wishing to correct names listed here can email info@nanaimonewsnow.com.

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by Jordan Davidson

Major opposition heard in Nanaimo at second Cable Bay public hearing

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