Kingsville provides update on light bylaw enforcement

KINGSVILLE — On October 26, Kingsville Town Council approved and adopted Bylaw 96- 2020, which is a bylaw to prohibit and regulate public nuisances related to odours and lighting from the cultivation of plants and cannabis.

In November, a Town Hall style meeting was organized to provide information and clarify expectations with over thirty greenhouse owners in attendance.

Greenhouse owners and operators were informed that light abatement methods were to be installed immediately according to the bylaw.

Since discussions began, the overwhelming majority of commercial growers have proven themselves receptive to working with the municipality to move their operations towards compliance.

They have presented plans, purchase receipts, and anticipated timeframes for installation to the town’s Bylaw Enforcement Officer, and the town is satisfied they are making reasonable efforts to become compliant as quickly as possible.

These greenhouse operators will not be subject to fines under the bylaw, provided their plans remain intact and on track with what was presented.

“It’s important to recognize that many growers have already taken steps and made installations in support of Kingsville’s public nuisance bylaw,” acknowledged Mayor Nelson Santos. “These acts of compliance are making an impact in responding to our community’s concerns.”

The remaining greenhouse owners that utilize grow lights and who have not responded or presented light abatement strategies to the municipality, may be subject to further enforcement.

Complaints must be filed with the town, after which the Bylaw Enforcement Officer will conduct an investigation and determine if further enforcement is required.

Kingsville is asking for patience with the process and and asking any residents with complaints to report them through the online system at www. kingsville.ca/reportit.

“I had informed town council and the public when the bylaw was passed, that the process of enforcement could take a couple of years before we will see dark skies,” said Kingsville CAO John Norton. “We have already been questioned on the legality of our bylaw, so we have to do enforcement carefully. On the other hand, we have seen a very positive response from the growers, who have responded to the bylaw by ordering curtains and beginning the process of becoming compliant. So I think we are heading in the right direction.”