WENDELL- More than 50 people attended Thursday's hearing on removing language in City Ordinance 441 that requires meatpacking, processing plants and slaughterhouse facilities to be at least 1,000 feet from residences, aside from the residence of the facility's owner.

When prompted by Planning and Zoning Chairman Paul Isaacson for a show of hands to indicate who at the hearing was in favor of the proposed changes, not a single hand was raised.

Almost all audience members raised their hand when asked if they were against the change.

Residents are concerned that removing the language would pave the way for Valley Beef, at 437 West Avenue B in Wendell, to move and expand its operation. The proposed site, in the southwest quadrant of town, is along West Avenue F.

Those commenting on the change said that if a slaughterhouse is built near residences it would lower property values and compromise the quality of life for the surrounding area.

"Would I want my house within 1,000 feet of a slaughterhouse? No," said Wendell Realtor Todd Davis. "Would I want my business that close? No.

"Would you live that close to one?" he asked commissioners.

Twin Falls Attorney Daniel Brown addressed the commission on behalf of his client Mike Schrank, who owns and operates Intermountain Motor Homes Inc. & RV Park, in close proximity to where the slaughterhouse would be built.

Brown said Schrank is concerned that a slaughterhouse would deter customers and could put him out of business because of the dust, flies and odor the facility could cause.

"Wendell should keep that type of business outside of town," Brown said.

If the city changes the ordinance Brown said, "We are prepared to take legal actions," and said the matter should be presented as a referendum for vote.

Isaacson said the commission would have to meet and didn't know what its recommendation on the ordinance to the council would be.

"We will report to the council our recommendation after we get together and discuss this issue," he said. "Regardless of our recommendation it's up to the council on what the outcome will be."

Blair Koch may be reached at 208-316-2607 or blairkoch@gmail.com.