Legal steps paving the way for the development of 240 acres in Caldwell County by MFA to build a major grain distribution center were recently approved.
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According to courthouse minutes dated Feb. 16, published by the Caldwell County News on April 20, county commissioners voted to accept the recommendation of a Planning and Zoning Board to change the land from agricultural to industrial use. In a separate meeting, the Board of Adjustments also passed a variance allowing for a height of 180 feet for a leg of the elevator involved in the project.
The land targeted for development is east of Hamilton off Highway 36 with close access to the Union Pacific Railroad.
Those in attendance at the public hearing were Margaret Ohlberg, Barbara DeJoode, Tom Silvey, Joe Reed, Nathan Belstle with MFA, Adam McIntyre with MFA, Gary Whitmer with Caldwell County Planning and Zoning, Caldwell County Assessor Beverly Alden.
According to the Caldwell County News, Joe Reed spoke (from a farmer’s point of view) in favor of rezoning the property, feeling the proposed project was a “win-win” situation for the county using economic growth, additional taxes for the county, convenience for farmers, and employment opportunities as positive examples.
Barbara DeJoode spoke (from a landowner viewpoint) in opposition to the proposed project. She cited inconvenience to landowners with the possible closing of Northeast Sandstone Drive, the potential for lower property values, and the safety of the location chosen for the project.
The legal description of the 240 acres located at 6438 NE Nettleton Road near Hamilton is Sec. 23, Township 57, Range 27. The development of the grain distribution center is expected to impact the entire region, including Daviess County.