The BMI Group is close to having a portion of the former mill property rezoned.

The property owners want to change the zoning of lands in the southeast portion of the property that they have identified as a wellness precinct.

They are asking Fort Frances town council to approve changing the current designation of light industrial to a new mixed-use one that would allow for a variety of commercial, institutional and residential developments.

BMI is now working on two separate projects, including one that would make use of a former warehouse.

It is the first major development for the former mill property.

Any development proposed for other parts of the property is not included in the rezoning applications as they are still in the conceptual stages.

Tom Janzen, with Scatliff & Miller& Murray, says there is public support for the project.

“Just two weeks ago, we had an open house where we presented the concept plan and gave a preview of these three applications to the general public,” says Janzen. “We had about 70 folks come out, and it was largely positive responses. We heard from a lot of folks who are just excited to see development on the site proceed.”

Town council recently held a public meeting to discuss the zoning requests.

No opposition was presented.

A letter of support from Centra Transmission Holdings was received, noting it had no objection.

Council is expected to make a final decision on the rezoning requests at an upcoming meeting.

Chief Building Official John Burrows notes any appeal of council’s decision is only allowed by those who made an oral statement at the meeting or provided written comments in advance.