Coming to a resolution

Times Reporter

 

For a few weeks now there has been discussion over whether or not Smith Trucking Services Ltd would be able to receive a permit regarding two gravel pits near Cluny. Both pits exist on Dianne and Don Brown’s land; one is to the South and one to the North.

After weeks of debate and even a few public discussions, decisions have been made. Eugene Foisy, a representative, respectfully withdrew one of his requests for a permit. 

“It would be pointless to have a pit that would be completely exhausted by the building of this road,” said Foisy, regarding the north pit. One of the requirements of the permit was to make the road meet Alberta Transportation standards for a heavy traffic road. 

“I’m not comfortable asking someone to do something we don’t do already,” said Councillor Glenn Koester. 

There seemed to be some confusion as to whether there is a set standard concerning situations like this and Councillor Alice Booth pointed out the fact that it should be fixed now. After hearing the north pit will not be used, discussion about other roads in need of repair came up, including Highway 842.

“I think the county and the provincial government better get their ducks lined up and get us a road,” said Dianne Brown regarding the 842. 

For the south pit, because of the amount of gravel available there it is feasible for Smith Trucking to maintain the road to where it should be, whereas on the north it is not. 

One of the biggest issues regarding the crushing and hauling of the gravel is the dust. Val Brassard owns Brassard Greenhouses Ltd, and her biggest concern was the affect the dust would have on her plants.  

 “We’re not against it at all, just crush, get it out of there, and its gone,” said Brassard. 

After many consultations and some research, Brassard figured out the full effect the dust should have on her plants and presented it to council. Since then they have been working with council and through council with the Browns to find the best option for all parties involved. Foisy agreed to the condition of putting a calcium chloride on the road to help with dust control. Foisy said they did not want to pave the road, because after they have exhausted the pit the plan is to return it to agricultural grounds. 

The use of calcium chloride did not sit well with Booth, but after some discussion and amendments to the permit it was accepted. 

Foisy even added to the permit, recommending that signs be added in and around the pit to monitor speed limits, et cetera for the safety of the residents and the workers. Smith Trucking can only haul and crush Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m., and they can haul only on Saturdays from 8 a.m. until noon.