Prince George, B.C. – The  way has been cleared for a dog kennel operation at the former Haldi Rd School.

Residents opposed to the  proposal cited  noise from barking dogs,  concerns over  water usage,  as well as concerns over  contaminants  from  animal urine, feces  and the chemicals  used to clean  kennels making their way into the  neighbourhood water supply .

The proponent  plans to use steam to clean the kennels so there would be  no  chemicals use. Pet waste is to be taken to  landfills which accept  pet waste ”

The proponent is hoping to have an open house with the neighbourhood to address their concerns.

This is the same site that was  the subject of a battle between the neighbourhood and the proponent who had wanted to establish a recovery centre for women .  That  battle would see  the City and  the neighbourhood in court  twice,  with the City  coming out the winner.  In this  proposal,  some of the same people who stood up against  the  recovery centre,  either spoke in favour of  the kennel operation or submitted letters of support.

“If the kennel  is  operated as proposed, I think it would be a good fit for our neighbourhood” said long time Haldi area resident Joanie Peterson.

Councillor Garth Frizzell  said he found it reassuring to get a letter in support of the kennel project  from two of the people who led the charge against the  recovery centre.

The  approval for the  changes was unanimous,  although Councillors  Brian Skakun and  Susan Scott were absent.

The restrictive covenant  which  prevented  well use  at that site has been  rescinded,  the OCP  and zoning changed to  allow  the development of  the kennel.  There is a new  restrictive covenant which prevents dog breeding  at the site.