Puslinch council has finally passed a zoning amendment bylaw for Milburn Auto Sales.
The matter was first delayed because of a township oversight – it forgot to notify Guelph officials of a public meeting – and then put off again pending an Oct. 16 meeting between the proponent and city officials.
The sales and service business, currently located on Crawley Road in Guelph, applied to rezone a property at 219 Brock Road North (County Road 46) in Puslinch to allow its relocation there. The 1.85 hectare, privately serviced lot will include a 1,000 square metre building and the outdoor display of up to 170 vehicles.
Nancy Shoemaker, who represents owner Robert Milburn, told council last week the meeting with the city staff went well, and staff there now seem satisfied with the technical aspects of the Milburn proposal.
“Their biggest concern was setting a precedent [with fringe development],” Shoemaker said.
But she is hopeful a letter from county planner Gary Cousins, which states the land is already zoned commercial, will convince city officials there is no precedent being set.
“We’re satisfied we’ve addressed all the policies [in Puslinch and Guelph],” added Shoemaker.
Councillor Matthew Bulmer agreed, adding Milburn has gone above and beyond the minimum requirements of the proposal.
“I think it sets an excellent precedent,” Bulmer quipped. He said people that work with the township should be recognized.
Council unanimously approved the bylaw.
