We strongly oppose the rezoning of the Independent Log Co. property at 1050 Lebanon Road in Cortez from commercial to industrial use. While we recognize the need for local business development, this is absolutely the wrong site for a lumber mill.

There is no buffer between the Carpenter Natural Area and the proposed industrial site, a floodplain extends through the ILC property, and ILC’s earth-moving activities and heavy equipment storage have altered the watercourse, potentially leaked toxins, disturbed wildlife, and degraded the experience of utilizing the nature area.

ILC’s activities adversely affect nearby residents. Impacts include grading the hillside and excessive noise from mechanical activities already of an “industrial” nature. The proposed mill would increase noise and pollution levels. ILC has a history of noncompliance at the site (no consultation concerning the wetlands, no construction permits, no engineering survey and an inadequate site map), and there is widespread community opposition. Traffic congestion and hazards along Lebanon Road and the intersection with Highway 491, a dangerous intersection and the location of two fatalities within the last year, will increase over time.

If this property is rezoned to industrial, it will set a troubling precedent. Why are there planning codes if a noncompliant entity can break the rules, then change them to benefit that landowner at the expense of the public good? To maintain the public trust in established zoning protocols, we urge the Cortez Planning and Zoning commission and City Council to vote against the proposed rezoning.

Deb Silverman and Paul Stirniman

Cortez