Most residents of the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen would likely agree a regional compost facility would be a good idea.
The problem is where to put such a facility.
At present, two locations have been suggested. One is in the Marron Valley area and the other is behind the Summerland landfill.
Neither option is perfect.
There are residents living close to the proposed Marron Valley site who would be affected by the facility near their homes.
In Summerland, the site location is farther away from nearby homes, but the route to the location is on a busy road, past two schools and residential neighbourhoods.
There are other concerns, about the odour from the proposed facility, leachate, environmental impact and the effect on property values of nearby homes.
It is easy to find examples of compost facilities which have had problems, especially when odours affect neighbouring areas.
Richmond, B.C., for instance, has had its share of odour issues. An Ontario site has also generated plenty of complaints from people living in the area.
This is not to say all compost facilities are stinky problem areas. However, when a compost site has problems, they become extremely noticeable and can sour an entire population on composting.
Proponents of the composting facilities have spoken about the benefits, especially in the reduction of greenhouse gases.
In addition, if a site is well-run, using state-of-the-art technology, the concerns can be minimized.
A regional compost facility will be needed, and it will have to go somewhere within the regional district.
The question of location remains an important one to answer.
No matter where such a facility is located, it has the potential to cause problems for those who live nearby.