While the stockyards of the past are not returning to Springfield, a long vacant property in the city could turn into a combination of a slaughterhouse and meat market.
Springfield Economic Development Director Mike Farmer says redevelopment of the former Dane’s Discount property on Stevenson Drive could be an economic boost for the area.
“I think with the proper protections it could provide another outlet for retail butchery here in Springfield,” Farmer says. “It needs to be given full consideration.”
Some residents of the Laketown neighborhood have expressed concerns about odor and increased traffic.
Magro Processing of Auburn operates a similar facility in Auburn. The Springfield Planning and Zoning Commission will hear the variance request September 17th and then the City Council will vote on the commission’s recommendation.