Backers of the Gabriola Commons rezoning application to expand the uses permitted on the North Road property have added to their rezoning application wish list.

Biodiesel conversion; development of solar, wind, and geo-thermal energy; the demonstration of natural building technology such as cob, straw bale, living roof construction; and others were added Feb. 25 to the list of uses the Commons want the Gabriola Local Trust Committee (LTC) to consider.

Other uses the proponents have already applied for include: a food depot, a community kitchen, community gardens, indoor and outdoor public assembly, accessory camping facilities, education and training, and constructed wetlands.

In letters to the LTC, Commons Foundation President George Santos requested the additional uses, and Bob McKechnie, a retired professional engineer, submitted information clarifying that biodiesel conversion is relatively safe.

Trustees resolved to schedule a special meeting to consider the draft bylaw for the rezoning application along with public input, staff advice on recommendations from the Advisory Planning Commission regarding the application, and a report from the planner on the amendment to the rezoning application.