Representatives of the Guardians of Martin County presented a referenced position paper at the Dec. 2 commission meeting asking staff to investigate a proposed beef processing facility on the Chancey Bay Ranch property in northwestern Martin County and to schedule a public hearing so the public can review project details.

Greg Brown, executive director of the Guardians, said staff and volunteer researchers used permitting databases, FOIA requests and peer‑reviewed fact sheets to compile reported noncompliances and potential environmental impacts, and asked the commission to accept the Guardians’ paper and allocate staff time for a review. “We believe that by carving off the meat processing facility from the rest of the 2,000 acres…the owner has created an industrial operation rather than an agricultural operation, and therefore we think the county has the responsibility and the authority to proceed with reviewing the application,” Brown said.

Commissioner Capps moved to schedule a future agenda item to review the matter and the motion was seconded and supported by the board. Commissioners indicated the item would be prepared as a future agenda package so staff can present legal and technical analysis before any formal action.

No formal permitting decision was made at the meeting; the board directed staff to add the matter to a future meeting agenda so the public may provide input and the county can review the papers submitted by the Guardians.