Pendleton to Ingalls re: Newco expansion

Editor’s note: The Town of Pendleton drafted this letter to Ingalls Town Council and Ingalls Board of Zoning Appeals prior to the BZA’s 7 p.m. Oct. 21 meeting at Maple Ridge Elementary School.

Dear Board Members:

The Pendleton Town Council has been made aware of the variance request by Newco Metals and its subsidiary for facility expansion pending before your Board.

Pendleton recognizes your sole authority to grant this variance request. However, due to the proximity to the Town of Pendleton, we respectfully request that you thoroughly and carefully evaluate all the possible negative impacts that this type of development may have on surrounding communities before considering granting this request.

While the facility itself is located within the Town of Ingalls, the parcel it will be constructed upon borders the Town of Pendleton to the north and east. A project of this nature could drastically impact the future land use of the western part of Pendleton.

The 2018 Comprehensive Plan Update Future Land Use Map shows use in the area immediately around Newco Metals as Planned Business use, rather than Industrial.

Smelting is not a permitted or conditional industrial land use in the Town of Pendleton in any zoning district. Having a smelting plant, or anything similar to it, will influence the type of uses which choose to locate nearby within our town boundaries.

In addition to land-use issues, the Plan Commission is concerned with the overall impact on the health of Pendleton residents as well as the health of all South Madison County residents. The Plan Commission is also concerned with potential environmental impacts, including soil, water, and air.

Now, more than ever, it is important that we develop and implement strategies for positive growth along the 1-69 corridor. The expansion of heavy industry and semi-truck traffic at an interchange that is a gateway to several communities, including Pendleton, is concerning.

The Town of Pendleton understands the importance of regionalism and working together with our neighboring communities. We hope a good working relationship with our communities will benefit all of the residents in our respective towns.