Despite concerns expressed by a county planner, it appears Mapleton council will at least consider a zoning amendment bylaw for the Harvest Table in Parker.
The produce outlet and country store owner applied to amend the site specific zoning on the property at the corner of County Roads 12 and 7, to allow a residential dwelling as well as a food establishment known as The Bistro.
County planner Linda Redmond said in 2008, when Mapleton Council approved the Harvest Table farm produce outlet, it was considered a small scale, farm-related commercial use. The bistro, where the business serves food on a patio, was always considered an accessory use has expanded, prompting store owner John Slot and landowner Brad Marquardt to seek legal recognition of it.
“It’s definitely grown beyond what was approved,” Redmond told council Oct. 13.
She has no concern with the residential use – an apartment – on the property, but wondered if the restaurant should be located in a more urban area. It seems the bistro has become the primary use.
But Slot and Marquardt said that is not the case. In a letter, Marquardt said the bistro accounts for 10% of the total sales. Slot stressed the original intent of the Harvest Table has never changed.
“I’m sorry, but this little business is growing,” Slot told council, adding he is “a little perturbed” about the emphasis being placed on the bistro. “I think we went beyond the call of duty to explain what we are doing,” he said.
The goal of the bistro is to allow customers to sample the foods available at the store – 80% of which is locally grown – on a unique, nutritious menu.
While it boasts a lot of local customers, the store has hosted visitors from Toronto and Ottawa, who now place orders there
Neighbour Paul Kelly asked if the zoning on the Harvest Table property would change and if it would mean further restrictions on his farm.
Redmond said zoning will not change; new uses – residential and food service establishment – will be added to the existing zoning. Kelly seemed to be satisfied with that answer.
Council passed a resolution to have a zoning amendment bylaw passed ready for Oct. 27
Councillor Dennis Craven was absent.
