Millar: Positive Direction for Former Site 41 Lands

News release from Tiny Township Mayor Ray Millar June 30 2011

Perkinsfield ON – On June 28th, Simcoe County Council unanimously passed a resolution that will allow for the development of a water and agricultural research center on the lands formerly designated for development as Landfill Site 41.

The decision will see 257 acres of the site offered for sale through an open tender process set to begin in August of 2011 with final submissions received by December 31, 2011. Simcoe County’s actions regarding the disposition of land is governed by the Municipal Act and the County’s own by-laws.

In addition to the agricultural zoning that was put in place on the property by the Township of Tiny in cooperation with the County of Simcoe, County and municipal officials are considering additional options such as a Conservation Easement to ensure that the property remains used for agricultural purposes.

The remaining 86 acres of property, 55 of which are suitable for experimental crops, will continue to be held by the County with a view towards developing a research center in association with Dr. William Shotyk, founder of the Elmvale Foundation and a leading expert on ground water issues. Dr. Shotyk first presented his concept for this facility to members of County Council in March of 2011, where it was well received.

As a result of that presentation and subsequent discussions with County representatives, Dr. Shotyk has been given until March 15th, 2012 to further develop his proposal and business plan for County approval.

Township of Tiny Mayor Ray Millar has stated that this decision of County Council strikes a balance between the duty to manage the affairs of the County in a fiscally responsible manner while, at the same time, recognizing an opportunity to develop a leading water and agricultural research facility here in

Simcoe County. “It’s an innovative solution to what was once seen as an intractable problem.”

The proposed development of Landfill Site 41 has been a contentious issue for many years but this unanimous decision by County Council is a significant step in putting that issue behind us and moving forward in a very positive direction