STUART — Martin County residents packed the commission chambers Feb. 24 to protest a proposed slaughterhouse planned for Chancey Ranch in western Martin County, voicing concerns about potential environmental impacts and water quality.
County officials told the crowd that the project is no longer under local development review after the state determined it qualifies as a bona fide agricultural operation.
Peter Walden, deputy growth management director for Martin County Board of County Commissioners, said the county received formal notice from the state earlier in the process…