City officials are considering changes to the industrial zoning code that would permit composting facilities. An unnamed developer has expressed interest in an area near Keizer Station for a containered composting facility.
A public hearing has been scheduled regarding a proposed in-container composting business eyeing a city-owned property near Volcanoes Stadium.
Because of COVID-19 concerns, the Keizer Planning Commission meeting will be held via Zoom. Those wishing to contribute to the discussion are encouraged to submit written testimony via email or dropped off at the Keizer Civic Center no later than 4 p.m. on Jan. 13. Send email testimony to [email protected].
City staff are proposing a change to the city’s industrial zone code. Currently, composting facilities are specifically prohibited. Keizer’s planning department is asking the planning commissioners and residents for input.
The as-yet-unnamed developer is interested in a composting facility that would be the first of its kind in Keizer and one of fewer than 10 in the nation. Containered composting takes place in batches with “airtight” vessels attached to a building with a biofilter to remove odors, according to Green Mountain Technologies, a Washington-based manufacturer of the containers. A single aeration system can accommodate up to 50 containers.
The Keizer City Council approved moving forward at its Dec. 7 meeting. If the planning commission recommends approval, there will be additional opportunities for public input at city council meetings.