Mayor's Column - 8 February 2012 - Pasminco Area Plan

Date Posted: 8 February 2012

The new year frequently gets off to a flying start and last week was a good example for Council with some big issues on the table. A Council meeting on Monday night was followed by two public meetings; one on Tuesday night at Belmont regarding climate change and sea level rise, while on Wednesday night there was a meeting at Argenton to discuss a number of matters, but with particular reference to the former Pasminco smelter and its legacy.
Last year saw concern over a proposal by the administrator of the former Pasminco site to change the road network and access to Boolaroo as part of their redevelopment. The loss of direct road access was never supported by councillors, staff, or by the community, and following discussion between Council, the developer, and Roads and Maritime Services (RMS, formerly RTA), agreement was reached that a roundabout would be constructed satisfying the needs of the new development and existing township.
Council last week approved an area plan for the land, the purpose of which is to provide specific guidance for the development of the land, following its rezoning in 2010 and 2011. The area plan includes the roundabout and I am hopeful that the administrator will now proceed as quickly as possible to advance the reuse of this important site.
Council is continuing to look at how the legacy of the smelter is managed, particularly as it relates to property records of residential land. While I am frustrated that Council continues to receive some criticism over this matter, I am confident that our responsibilities to the community on a very complex matter are being properly met.

Article by Mayor Greg Piper