Giving Holmedale a voice

10/24/2003

Harding devloper wants to set up citizens' committee

BY SUSAN GAMBLE
EXPOSITOR STAFF / BRANTFORD


The man who wants to redevelop the Old Harding Carpets factory says he plans to immediately set up a community advisory committee to help address the Holmedale neighbourhood's concerns about the plant.

Steve Charest, president fo King and Benton, which has an agreement to purchase the 10-acre property, said there has been a great deal of concern about the site and the sale.

"Because of that high interest, we're going to go ahead and set up a community advisory committee," said Charest.

"We're sending out a flyer (today) and hoping in the next week or so to have things finalized."

"We want your input," states the flyer, which also notes that King and Benton will be canvassing the neighbourhood to ask residents if they are interested in sitting on the committee.

Committee members will be announced in November.

Charest said the firm wants to circulate a questionnaire to help identify the concerns and questions neighbours have.

"It's important to let them know the developer and - I think - the city understands their issues."

The flyer states that the company wants to keep the lines of communication open with area residents.

"Our promise is that King and Benton will work with the City of Brantford are residents to revitalize the Harding Carpet site and make it a viable business and vibrant addition to the neighbourhood."

It's a good idea to get the neighbours on board, said Coun. Marguerite Ceschi-Smith.

But the brownfields expert said she can't help pondering Charest's motives.

"The cynical part of me says his knuckles were rapped and he's got bad press and wants to be seen as a good citizen," said Ceschi-Smith.

"But the other part says we all know if he doesn't consult the community, they'll rebel."

"I guess he's trying to be a good corporate citizen."

But the councillor said she still can't endorse the speedy decision to sell off the Harding site at a bargain basement price of $100,000 before knowing what's on the property.

"I don't support this deal. It's such a knee-jerk reaction."