Trust. It is something that in relationships needs to be earned.
BURNCO understands that, and would like the opportunity to earn that trust in the Howe Sound.
The company is celebrating 100 years in business in Western Canada due in a large part to the trust instilled in them by the communities in which it operates. It is a fourth generation family owned company that has based its business on a commitment to doing the right thing.
At some of the recent public meetings surrounding the BURNCO Howe Sound Aggregate project the issue of trust has been touched upon. Many have expressed a lack of trust in industry in general due to the work done in the area in the past. BURNCO understands that.
I talked to a neighbour and strong supporter of one of BURNCO’s projects, but who when the project was first announced, was very skeptical and came to the company with a long list of questions and concerns.
The following is what she had to say about her experience with BURNCO:
“I first became aware of Burnco in 2003 when they proposed to establish a gravel mining and processing operation in our area. Kim Titus was one of our main contacts with BURNCO.
I, and my neighbours, had quite a few concerns about their operation, e.g. water quality (how it would affect our wells and possible contaminates in the groundwater), noise levels, air quality, traffic disruption, effects on wildlife, and changes to property values. We were fortunate to be able to tour an area that had been mined and reclaimed by BURNCO. This area was now a residential community with a lake and a park as the main attraction. We also visited an in operation mining and processing site. The obvious efforts that had been made to mitigate any disruption to the local residents was very impressive.
After further meetings, including information sessions with experts in the fields of study that concerned us, most residents were willing to let the operation go ahead. It has been 5 years now that BURNCO has been operating in our area and there have been no detrimental affects to our lifestyle. Our wells have not been affected. Noise and dust levels are monitored and have been no problem. Their operation has not affected the sale or purchase of acreages in the area. The moose and deer have not left the area and Canada geese swim at the water recycling pond located near the wash plant.
I feel BURNCO has acted professionally and courteously to the residents living around the operation.”
Leona Gibbs
BURNCO is committed to working with residents and stakeholders surrounding its Howe Sound Aggregate project to ensure its approach is the most respectful of the people and the environment. BURNCO wants to be a good neighbour, and will work hard to gain your trust.