The proponents of a new sawmill with a projected price tag of $145 million to be built in Bonfield faces a public planning meeting August 22. The meeting provides an opportunity for stakeholders to speak for or against the development.
International Wood Industries (IWI) announced plans for the new development in July, with the full public support of the Mattawa-Bonfield Economic Development Corporation. IWI estimates that 87 positions will be created.
The discussion will be focused on the rezoning of a 212-acre parcel of land bordered by Highway 17 and Trout Pond Road. The site is currently zoned for agriculture. The possibility of traffic and noise issues near the site are expected to be among the items addressed at the meeting, which will be held at the Ste Bernadette Parish hall at 7 p.m. on Aug. 22.
IWI president Gary Medwid said at the July announcement that IWI would be securing the appropriate permits while preparing for the public meeting. The company hopes to break ground by autumn, with a tentative completion date of December 2018.
