COBDEN — Whitewater Region Township is exploding in growth with the construction of a brewery, 73 serviced lots in an expanding subdivision and the development of commercial and residential lots on 180 acres.
Matt Naismith and Tom Enright of BEI (Bonnechere Excavating Inc.) updated council on what the company is proposing for development in Cobden.
It was also noted once the presentation was concluded, two requests would be forthcoming to begin the development.
The company’s developments are a brewery on the former mill property located on the western edge of town at Wallace Drive as well as the possibility of a fuel and food vendor in the future; the recently-purchased 180+ acres of what is known as the Bennett Farm located beside the Astrolabe Arena on Astrolabe Road; and the expansion of the Wren Subdivision by 73 serviced lots.
“What does this mean for Cobden,” Mr. Naismith asked.
It means jobs and an increased tax base for Whitewater Region Township; increased opportunities for businesses to locate within Cobden; improvements of infrastructure; opportunities to improve/add to recreational facilities in Cobden; and making Cobden a destination point for tourists.
Mr. Naismith and Mr. Enright gave some insight as to where the company is in development for each location, adding that as needed, council will be kept informed.
He noted there’s been quite a bit of work on the Bennett Farm, including the barns and outbuildings demolished, the house fixed up for a tenant and the silo taken down.
Mayor Hal Johnson, an employee of BEI, said he had the opportunity to watch the silo come down.
“It’s exciting to see the property cleaned up and positive draining,” he said. “That will aid in the protection of Astrolabe Road.”
Councillor Dave Mackay questioned if the land would have be levelled, considering how hilly it is.
Mr. Naismith said there will be some landscaping and levelling.
The brewery on the hill, which is the expansion of the Whitewater Brewery currently located on Fletcher Road between Foresters Falls and Beachburg, will employ about 20 people as soon as it’s operational, Mr. Naismith said. It’s also expected there will be more homes built on Wallace Drive.
Once the building permit for the brewery is obtained from the township, the concrete to begin construction will be poured, Mr. Naismith said.
A concern was discussed regarding the township sharing in the costs of the sewer line installation.
It was agreed a more in-depth discussion regarding this issue could occur at an environmental services committee meeting.
Council agreed to the request for a left hand turning lane on Hwy. 17 where the brewery will be located.
Mayor Johnson said BEI is a proactive company the township wants to work with. He has been employed by them for the last four years and they have tripled in size successfully.
“They want to invest heavily in our community,” he said. “I’m very excited with what this has started in our municipality. It doesn’t matter if we build it or you build it. We will grow and people will come.”
Mr. Naismith said he appreciates council’s support.
“We’ve had some good experiences the last several months,” he said as the company has worked with municipal staff and council.
