Corinne Chiasson, Senior Planner, Planning Services, explained that the purpose of this proposed zoning by-law amendment at 152 County Road 50 East, Colchester South is to permit a dwelling ancillary to the farming operation for housing farm labour. She further explained that this property is zoned as Agricultural District 1.1 for general agricultural and farm production activities. She noted that the property includes one farm operation building and one ancillary dwelling which the applicant is requesting to convert into farm labour accommodations. She stated that this building met the requirements of the building code in 2023 and was constructed as an ancillary dwelling to the farming operation which is permitted under the zoning by-law.
Ms. Chiasson explained that the vineyard production and processing is labour intensive and requires seasonal labourers with on-site accommodations to offer feasible and efficient operations without the need to transport workers to and from the site. She stated that based on policy considerations, this is a permitted use and requires accommodation for full-time labour as it is of such a size and nature that the operation requires additional employment. She noted that the ancillary dwelling is located on the lot in such a way to prevent the creation of a severable residential lot in the future and that the ancillary dwelling would host 4 rooms with shared facilities and common areas. She stated that Administration consulted with the public and the Essex Region Conservation Authority and there were no comments or objections.
Deputy Mayor Shepley asked what the existing building was constructed for in 2023.
Ms. Chaison stated that the applicant built a dwelling to accommodate farm labour in the future which is permitted under the zoning by-law.