We are writing this letter to bring to your attention the recent issues that are seriously impacting our Neighbourhood and creating an unacceptable increase in Industrialization in the heart of our neighbourhood.
These storage silos were installed by Fort Distributors along the BNSF short line rail in mid-September. No notification was given to the residents living in the area despite the permits having been issued the year prior. No consideration was given to the impact this would have on property values and residents ability to have peaceful enjoyment of our homes.
Through the involvement of Councillor John Orlikow and Hon. Jon Gerrard, we have recently learned that this land is zoned Residential and that Fort Distributors is in violation of the city by-laws. BNSF Rail, have leased this land to Fort Distributors. Cando is now planning a new transfer station to be located on the north side of Grant Ave. This site will require a curb cut, which is now under way. The purpose of this site will be to offload goods from rail cars onto flat bed trucks. The curb cut required to accommodate truck traffic, has been approved by the city.
We are requesting that all levels of government take an active role in the discovery process of the short line rail service running through River Heights and how this will impact property values and the health and safety concerns of our neighbourhood. There is an apparent disconnect that this industrial feature poses to the beauty, value and integrity of one of Winnipeg’s most desirable residential neighbourhoods.
We will fight for a reduction in our property taxes to reflect the utter disregard BNSF has for our right to peaceful enjoyment of our homes and properties and for the loss of market value that increased industrial development such as this imposes on the home owners of River Heights.
