The controversial expansion of the Spruce Lake Industrial Park in Saint John’s Lorneville community is one step closer.
Councillors unanimously passed the first two readings for the proposed project on Monday night.
The vote came despite overwhelming opposition from residents in Lorneville and beyond.
Coun. Joanna Killen, who represents the area, said deciding to support the project was not an easy decision for her.
“I believe it is a necessary step for Saint John’s growth and prosperity,” Killen said ahead of Monday’s vote.
“Our city needs more development-ready non-familial-legacy companies to be included in our landscape.”
Resident concerns
Saint John wants to add more than 1,500 acres of land to the industrial park, describing it as a once-in-a-generation opportunity.
But residents from near and far have voiced their concerns, with dozens expressing their opposition over three meetings.
One of the sticking points has been a lack of information about what corporations may be looking to come to the community.
Council previously heard there is formalized interest for a data centre project and a green manufacturing project with a combined capital investment of more than $2 billion.
Residents are also concerned about the loss of trees, the impact on wetlands and how any development could affect their well water.
Community legacy fund
Just three people spoke in favour of the expansion as the hearing concluded on Monday night, including representatives from Envision Saint John, the regional growth agency, and Port Saint John.
Coun. Greg Norton, who also supported the development, said the city needs to diversify.
“We can’t stay static, and this is part of that solution, it’s part of that recipe to continue to diversify,” said Norton.
In supporting the project, several councillors said they want to see a legacy fund set up that would benefit the community.
The rezoning and municipal plan amendment still require final reading from council, which could happen as soon as July 7.
In addition, the province must still approve the environmental impact assessment (EIA) application.