Zoning bylaw exception permits future hog barn on 12th Line property in Minto

MINTO – Council here granted a variance to the town’s zoning bylaw at its Sept. 6 meeting to allow for a future 13,000-square-foot pig barn at 5960 12th Line.

Lester and Nora Bearinger have a 155-acre property at the address with an existing barn and want to add another for pigs, however, the setback of the barn is required to be 1,676 feet from the nearest neighbouring building. The setback proposed in the Bearinger’s application asks for a reduction to 800 feet from the nearest building, which sits adjacent to 12th Line.

Town planning technician Ashley Sawyer said the barn is being pushed back far as it can, due to existing structures, land elevation and a laneway.

She also noted prevailing winds should carry the odour away from neighbouring dwellings and that the barn cannot be expanded upon without additional approval from the committee of adjustment.