Council here has approved a temporary zoning bylaw for Angelstone’s final three events in 2016.
Angelstone Farms Inc. wanted the temporary zoning amendment to allow the property, located on Wellington Road 50 northeast of Rockwood, to be used for equestrian competitions.
Angelstone was granted temporary zoning for its June events in December 2015. The August events, however, were only to be authorized if Angelstone continued to reduce noise impacts.
Fred and Nancy Gilbert, direct neighbours of the Angelstone property, have filed an appeal of the temporary zoning bylaw with the Ontario Municipal Board.
In his report, county planner Gary Cousins stated Angelstone was required to provide funding for town monitors and engage consultants for a review of the sound system and a sound monitoring program.
Town monitors visited the site eight times over the two June events. The report noted the PA system was altered and the noise seemed well contained.
However, the PA system in the practice ring was clearly audible at the Gilberts’ property. It was relocated prior to the second event. The monitors’ reports were positive during the second event.
Angelstone provided two sound monitoring reports. The first was a consultant’s review of the sound system.
Cousins noted the report “confirms that the sound system as now installed should operate in a manner that provides appropriate sounds to the people on site while minimizing off-site impact. There is no need for further changes and sound levels can be adjusted on site if needed.”
The second report monitored the sound level at three neighbouring residences from June 13 to 20. The Gilberts denied access to the monitors.
Cousins reported the results showed no noticeable differences in sound levels during the tournament versus the days before and after the event.
The town did not receive concerns from neighbours other than the Gilberts’ lawyer, who included complaints about the temporary fence, portable toilets and the consultant’s request to establish a monitoring location on the property.
Other complaints from the Gilberts included noise before and during events, speeding horse trailers, lighting and drainage issues.
Cousins concluded Angelstone has continued to reduce noise impacts.
“Overall sound levels on the site and off-site seem to be reduced over last year and are now reasonable. All other elements of the site operation seem satisfactory,” he stated.
Councillor Matt Sammut said a lot of work has been completed at the facility.
“Clearly there has been a lot of work done to ensure that Angelstone is progressing, and based on the report, progressing well,” he said.
Both Sammut and councillor Rob Smith asked about future permanent rezoning.
“That would depend on a report from county planning,” said Mayor Allan Alls.
Council passed the recommendation to approve Angelstone’s final three events and have monitoring services for those events.
