Farming operation allowed to diversify

An application to allow for a farming operation to diversify has been approved.

Jessica and Natalie Schnurr own a 41-hectare property at 1244 County Road 2 in Hallowell Ward and were seeking an Official Plan and Zoning by-law amendment to allow them to also be an events venue and tourist accommodation.

Natalie addressed Prince Edward County council virtually on Wednesday night as a deputation and briefly summarized the plans, which she says they will continue to farm and the on-farm diversified uses will only occupy 1.2% of the property and falls below the 2% required by the by-law.

She says 7.8 acres of their land will continue to be farmed for vegetables, berries and cash crops.

Natalie assured council that she comes from a long line of farmers and their intent is to continue to farm the land as well.

Currently the property is designated rural and provincially significant wetlands.

The report from Approvals Coordinator Matt Coffey states the application would allow for a wedding venue with events to be held within a renovated barn, as well as in accommodation units within the existing farmhouse, 10 tourist cabins, a six guest-room inn and bar.

Their plans to council stated the accommodation is intended to be a rustic outdoor experience, not a resort. There would be no conference centre, no spa and no restaurant. The cabins would be minimal, eco-friendly and sustainable. The Schnurrs’ describe it as a place to escape the city and get in touch with nature, so they will not have glamorous ‘resort’ amenities.

A new driveway would be constructed to access the barn venue and parking, and a new well and septic system would also be constructed.

Councillor Bill Roberts told Natalie and Jessica he has been impressed with their work since the beginning but wanted to know how the COVID-19 pandemic was impacting their plans.

Natalie said they are continuing to work on getting their facility up and running.

The application was approved unanimously.