Residents will have a chance to weigh in Oct. 13 regarding a proposed salvage yard pitched for just outside the Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site.

R.M. Salvage Inc. has applied to have about 35 acres of land west of Rocky Mountain House rezoned from agricultural to industrial.

Clearwater County gave first reading of the amendment at its Aug. 25 meeting, but it has since raised concerns among local elected officials and the historic site itself.

The Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site raised concerns in an online statement, saying the change would mean scrap storage greeting visitors near the entrance to the park area.

While the land is outside town limits, members of Rocky Mountain House town council were invited to review the application and provide their feedback.

Coun. Ken Moesker voiced opposition to the application, saying it could degrade the “gem” of the national historic site.

CAO Dean Krause noted the proposed site is within the Clearwater County and Town of Rocky Mountain House Intermunicipal Collaboration Zone, and that the town does make efforts to promote the site as a tourist destination.

Mayor Shane Boniface agreed, saying there is existing land near the Rocky Airport that might be better suited to a salvage yard.

Coun. Dale Shippelt made a motion for council’s consideration, choosing his words carefully. Stopping short of stating that council is opposed to the application, the motion instead stated that council has significant concerns. It was approved by council.

In its online statement, the national historic site is encouraging people to send letters of concern to Clearwater County.

“The sense [of] calm, history, grounding and belonging that the historic site offers many locals and visitors is impeccable,” the statement says. “There is a local admiration of David Thompson and the history of the Forts. If you feel you can help protect that, please write to Clearwater County.”

94.5 Rewind Radio reached out to R.M. Salvage for comment, but did not hear back in time for publishing.

Clearwater County is holding a public hearing on the matter Tuesday, Oct. 13, just after 9 a.m. at council chambers.