Delta will not host a public information meeting on the proposed Southlands development for at least a couple of months.
Council on Monday agreed with a staff recommendation not to hold a municipal meeting on the proposal until Sept. 6 at the South Delta Recreation Centre.
Submitting a formal rezoning proposal this spring, the Century Group hosted a pair of information meetings in May.
However, council was told many questions have been raised about the proposed development through the referral of the application to external agencies, Delta advisory committees and the public
CAO George Harvie told council the new meeting date was recommended because they want to ensure the applicant will provide thorough information.
Coun. Sylvia Bishop said it's clear much more information and clarification is needed, including projected traffic counts should it be determined large amounts of fill would be required for the site.
Coun. Jeannie Kanakos agreed, saying she wants details on what will take place on the 80 per cent of the land to be given to Delta, as well as the responsibility for maintenance and improvements such as drainage and irrigation.
Among the many other questions is how the development would be protected from flooding, particularly in light of climate change research.
Council agreed to retain consultants to prepare two independent studies, including a flood construction level study and a storm water management study. The studies will cost a combined $125,000.
Century Group president Sean Hodgins submitted a rezoning application for the first phase of what would ultimately be a 950-unit housing proposal. The first phase involves 450 residential units in various forms and densities.
The proposed housing would encompass 20 per cent of the 500-plus acre Tsawwassen site, while the remaining 80 per cent would be transferred to Delta for agricultural use, public open space, greenways and the preservation of natural habitat areas. A public market is also proposed, but some of the questions raised about it includes who would operate the market and whether it could also be converted to a multi-functioning space.
Many letters have come to municipal hall in recent weeks expressing opposition, however, the proposal also has many supporters.
Mayor Lois Jackson noted she wants people to make sure what they're conveying in their letters is factual and accurate.
