The Vars Community Association became aware of an application by Carl’s Sanitation, 5001 Herbert Drive (just off Russell Rd, near McNeely) just over a week ago.

The executive summary of their plan, along with an electronic input for can be found at this site;

http://www.ebr.gov.on.ca/ERS-WEB-External/searchNotice0.jsp?clearForm=true&menuIndex=1_1&language=en

enter the reference number 011-0246 in the EBR Registry number window and it will take you to the site in question.

The executive summary is fairly vague in describing the proposed activities so the Vars Community Association has requested from the Ministry of the Environment (MOE), our local M.P.P. Jean-Marc Lalonde and the Honourable John Gerretsen, Minister of the Environment, that a public information meeting be held to explain, in clear, layman’s terms exactly what Carl’s plans are so that everyone who is affected will have the opportunity for informed input.

An extension of time for input into the process was also requested, further, concern was expressed over the secretiveness of the process.

Rob Jellett, Councillor for our Ward has made the same requests.

Mr. Lalonde has responded to the Councillor and the input time frame has been extended from 30 days to 90 days and Mr. Lalonde is to arrange a public meeting, sometime in August with the MOE and Carl’s Sanitation in attendance.

On June 30th a quickly organized meeting was held at the Bearbrook Centennial Centre and interesting information came to light, including information gleaned from a visit to Carl’s, the entire application document and the experiences of our neighbours from Navan and the Friends of the Mer Bleue, who have gone through a similar experience in their neighbourhood. (Minutes of that meeting are also available on this site.)

Councillor Jellett is strongly opposed to this proposal, unfortunately since this doesn’t constitute a change of zoning, the City of Ottawa has limited influence.

The Vars Community Association will keep you posted via this website and the sign boards at Alcide Trudeau Park and Bearbrook Centennial Centre.

Email addresses for our M.P.P. and the Environment Minister are;

jmlalonde.mpp@liberal.ola.org

jgerretsen.mpp@liberal.ola.org

Carl's Sanination application can be found at: http://www.waste.rendev.ca/