3 candidates in Preston riding united in opposition to proposed waste facility
Provincial candidates vying to represent the Halifax riding with a proposed waste facility have a shared commitment — they will oppose the contentious project if elected. Kiann Management Ltd. has been advocating for the construction of a construction and demolition processing facility in a residential area located between Lake Echo and Porters Lake on Highway 7 for nearly ten years. A recent ruling by the Nova Scotia Supreme Court has reignited the debate following the overturning of a municipal rejection of the facility’s proposal.
The competition for the provincial Preston seat, where a portion of the site is situated, features the same three candidates from last summer’s byelection. Twila Grosse of the PC Party emerged victorious in the previous election, with Colter Simmonds representing the NDP coming in second, and Liberal Carlo Simmons finishing third.
During the previous campaign, the proposed waste facility became a focal point of controversy when Elections Nova Scotia instructed Simmons to remove campaign signs that criticized Tim Houston’s PC government for not taking action against the facility. However, a judge later determined that the province’s chief electoral officer lacked the authority to issue such an order.
Simmons asserts that he does not require the signs this time around as residents are well aware of his stance on the issue. “I’ll fight against it,” he declared, emphasizing his commitment to advocating for the constituents. He acknowledged that while he may not have all the solutions at present, he is dedicated to working towards fulfilling the community’s desires.
Concerns raised by neighbors include apprehensions about increased heavy truck traffic, noise pollution, dust, and potential environmental repercussions if the facility proceeds. Grosse, the PC candidate, expressed her opposition to the proposed waste facility being located in a residential area, suggesting that an industrial park would be a more suitable alternative. However, she emphasized the limited actions the provincial government can take prior to the completion of the municipal process.
Simmonds, the NDP candidate, reiterated his commitment to standing up for the residents who have expressed significant concerns about the facility. He emphasized the need to listen to the community’s needs and protect the environment in their vicinity. The site plan for the facility will ultimately undergo a final vote by Halifax council at a later date, with Kiann requiring additional approvals from both the city and province even if the plan is approved.
As the issue continues to unfold, the candidates remain steadfast in their opposition to the waste facility, each pledging to prioritize the concerns of the community and advocate for their best interests. The fate of the proposed facility remains uncertain, with the outcome hinging on the decisions of local authorities and the ongoing efforts of the candidates to champion the voices of the residents they seek to represent.
