Applicant Martin Whyte addresses D/NE council. December 6th, 2022
After months of back and forth between Drummond/North Elmsley council, its staff and members of the public, council voted to deny a zoning amendment which would’ve seen a commercial gun range on Rideau Ferry Road.
Council went against planner Brady McGlade’s recommendation to defer a decision until applicant Martin Whyte had a chance to respond to the peer review of his initial application.
In an emailed statement sent to local media outlets, Whyte expressed his displeasure.
“We are very disappointed that Drummond council did not do a proper and thorough analysis; but instead bowed to public pressure to deny the range,” it read.
Over 500 residents signed a petition opposing the application, and dozens came out to council chambers each time the matter was on the agenda.
“While we understand that this makes them look better to the local populace, it is not the proper way to do things and honestly they should know better,” Whyte’s statement continued.“They did not have all of the completed studies and even went againsttheir own planners advise (sic). Although far less outspoken, there is a large amount of public support in favour of this gun range.” Whyte says they are considering whether or not to appeal the decision.
Story by Grant Deme
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