Rural East Bethel Facing Development Dilemma
EAST BETHEL, Minn. (WCCO) -- It's a dilemma that traps rural communities in an ever-increasing struggle: how to attract industry while keeping the attributes its residents love.
That's exactly the tightrope the city of East Bethel is walking.
Currently, a 40-acre parcel just off Highway 65 and 237th Avenue is being eyed by a Rogers trucking company eager to build a larger production and distribution center.
Some nearby residents fear some potential problems like noise, congestion and odors.
Tammy Strecker lives just across the road, where she operates a licensed daycare.
"I'm also concerned about the traffic, Highway 65 and 237th, has been notorious for accidents," she said.
She's not alone raising concerns about the planned development by CST Transportation, which wants to build a light industrial plant where it can manufacture and distribute mulch to area big box stores.
The business plans to ship out 30 to 40 truckloads each day.
"This is a very delicate balancing act that the city is going through," said Jack Davis, East Bethel's city administrator.
He said the zoning for CST Transportation is a proper fit, but adds that residents' concerns must be addressed before permits are granted.
"We have given them assurances that this is a very serious consideration for us, and we're going to be extremely thorough with our evaluation and examination," Davis said.
He added that the area could use the 55 jobs.
Still, residents say what's not needed is more truck traffic, dust and odors from the mulch operation.
An attorney for CST says it is compliant with the site's land use, adding that the company will abide by city requirements.
That list could grow as rural residents try to put a leash on industrial growth.
"I don't think CST fits with what East Bethel calls a small town lifestyle," Strecker said. "I mean, I didn't move out here only to have this huge company move in next door."
A town hall meeting is slated for Tuesday night to gather input on a wide range of issues, not only this proposed development.
But judging by the turnout, it could take up much of the evening.
