by Anna Phalen
Correspondent
The Crookston Ways & Means Committee met Monday, Nov. 17 following the regular City Council meeting to discuss proposed changes to the zoning ordinance and to hear a presentation on the city’s comprehensive plan draft.Slaughterhouse zoning ordinance discussion
The committee continued its ongoing review of a proposed ordinance that would allow slaughterhouses within Crookston’s Heavy Industrial Zone (I-1).
Council member Derek Brekken opened the discussion by expressing support for moving the ordinance forward but questioned whether the process has been fair. Council member Henry Fischer agreed with those concerns. Council member Morgan Hibma said she would support the ordinance only if it included assurances that no livestock would be kept outdoors and that operations would maintain USDA certification at all times.
Jake Snyder spoke in favor of the ordinance, saying he felt Brent Epema, owner of B&E Meats, has been placed “under the microscope” throughout the process.
Epema addressed the council directly, explaining that his facility was built with the intention of keeping all animals inside and that his business is already subject to numerous regulations – regulations he says he has always followed. He emphasized his long-standing ties to Crookston, noting that raising his family and investing in the community have been priorities throughout the project. Epema reiterated that several city officials had previously given him approval to proceed and that the project has been years in development.
Committee members noted that the facility would process only about five to seven animals per day. Epema responded by pointing out that he had processed 800 deer during the past week alone without receiving any complaints.
Brekken noted that he felt Epema was being “picked on.” Epema has operated B&E Meats since 2006 and said he has never received a complaint in that time.
The committee agreed to move the ordinance to a vote at the next regular council meeting Monday, Dec. 1.
Comprehensive Plan draft presentation
The committee also heard a presentation on the draft of the city’s Comprehensive Plan as part of the “Empowering Small MN Communities” initiative.
Key points highlighted in the presentation included:
• Crookston currently has more commuters traveling into the city for work than East Grand Forks.
• The city could benefit from expanded or updated walking trails and pedestrian paths.
• Community growth should focus on enhancing existing assets and supporting strategic development.
• Future land-use opportunities exist for both industrial and residential expansion.
• Highway 2’s route through the city is considered a major asset, with steady traffic volume; the Minnesota Department of Transportation was advised to keep the current traffic lights in place longer.
• There is a growing need for additional market-rate housing.
Other priorities identified include air-conditioning the sports center, developing a community center, enhancing the city’s tree canopy, expanding education and outreach efforts, and fostering business incubation.
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