Colin Zelinsky, a resident of Pineridge Village Mobile Home Park near Birds Hill Park, has been enjoying the view of an empty field off Highway 59 for 13 years. He describes the mobile home park as decent low-income affordable housing that many people in the community need. However, residents were shocked to find flyers in their mailboxes about a proposed pharmaceutical manufacturing facility. A meeting was held shortly after to request community input, but many residents were unable to participate due to the overwhelming turnout.
The proposed pharmaceutical manufacturing facility would be a $120 million investment by Mittall Canada, with the goal of creating 1,000 jobs. The facility would manufacture drugs such as insulin and naloxone. Despite the potential economic benefits, area residents are strongly opposed to the development. Concerns include the impact on the environment, noise pollution, and the need for changes to area infrastructure. Residents fear that the facility would disrupt their peaceful community, which is located near a provincial park.
Mittall Canada believes that the proposed site is strategically located, with Winnipeg being centrally located and the site offering desired amenities. The company highlights the robust sewer infrastructure at the site, which is crucial for seamless wastewater management and regulatory compliance. Mittall is also seeking grants from provincial and federal governments to help fund the project. The proposal is still in its early phases and would require various development and zoning approvals from the R.M. of St. Clements.
Local residents, including Zelinsky and Nicole Goossem, are determined to oppose the pharmaceutical manufacturing facility every step of the way. They believe that the project would not only negatively impact the environment and community but also potentially push residents out of their neighborhood. Despite the potential economic benefits and job creation, residents are united in their opposition to the proposed development. They argue that the quality of life in their community would be greatly impacted by the presence of a pharmaceutical manufacturing facility.
As the proposal progresses, residents of Pineridge Village Mobile Home Park and surrounding communities remain vigilant in their opposition to the pharmaceutical manufacturing facility. They plan to continue voicing their concerns and advocating for the preservation of their neighborhood and surrounding environment. The outcome of this ongoing dispute between residents and Mittall Canada remains uncertain, as both parties are committed to their respective positions. For now, the fate of the proposed project hangs in the balance as stakeholders on all sides navigate the complex process of development and zoning approvals.
