The results of the non-binding referendum to allow Target Marine Hatcheries to process sturgeon for caviar on site were overwhelmingly positive with 2,687 people in favour and only 663 opposed, over 75 per cent yes votes.
"When I heard the results, I was ecstatic. It was really exciting for us, and I'd really like to thank the people of Sechelt for their overwhelming support," said Justin Henry, Target Marine Hatcheries manager. "It's been a huge distraction for us for a long time, so now we can finally get on with our business of producing one of the best caviars in the world."
The previous Sechelt council could not make a decision on Target's application, and after various deferrals, changes and failed motions, they decided to send it to a non-binding referendum as part of the Nov. 19 municipal election to gauge the public's wishes.
The referendum was non-binding because of the area of legislation it falls under. The question was piggy-backed on the municipal election ballot to cut costs.
However, Henry said the referendum was costly to the hatchery, due to advertising that had to be purchased.
"For us, the referendum was expensive. To put that cost on a local small business was inappropriate," Henry said. "We had to advertise in order to provide the information to the people of Sechelt."
Henry feels the hatchery's ad campaign made a huge difference in the referendum vote.
"Hundreds of people actually took the time to come out to the site and see what we do and what we're planning on doing. I think we won the referendum because people became informed," he said.
The application is still with the District of Sechelt and it will come before the new council for consideration of approval.
"I feel confident that the new council will support it," Henry said. "Councillors [Alice] Lutes and [Mike] Shanks have already supported it as councillors, and the others took the time to get informed before they were even elected."
Henry hopes to harvest the first crop of "Northern Divine" caviar early next spring.
