The public hearing for a controversial development proposal for the Southlands continues into a fourth day today.
Originally scheduled for three days, the hearing began Monday at the South Delta Recreation Centre and has already run for more than 17 hours. By the close of Wednesday's evening session, about 250 speakers had been called from a list that, so far, includes just over 350 names. That number doesn't include those who have already spoken and want a second chance to address Delta council.
The first two days of the hearing saw a slight majority speak in opposition, but it was supporters who had a narrow edge on the third day.
Each of the first three days saw large audiences during the afternoon sessions with crowds swelling to around 300 in the evening. Many of the same arguments for and against the Century Group proposal were made on Wednesday with supporters, many wearing "Yes" stickers and some sporting green T-shirts, saying the development would have positive impacts. Opponents, many clad in red baseball caps, once again claimed the opposite.
By the end of the third day it was clear both sides were firmly entrenched with only a few
throughout the proceedings suggesting any change or compromise.
On Wednesday, one resident opposed expressed frustration that it seemed to be nothing more than a numbers game and a mockery of democracy.
There were also several references to the "silent majority" and "NIMBYs" by supporters, one saying a solution to the ongoing controversy over the land presents itself, but faces stubborn and irrational opposition.
The opening day Monday gave a clear indication the issue is as divisive as ever, a fact acknowledged by both supporters and opponents.
Century Group president Sean Hodgins has been present to hear all speakers on his proposal that calls for 950 housing units while transferring 80 per cent of the 217-hectare (537-acre) Tsawwassen property to Delta, much of it for farming.
Opponents leveled arguments over the loss of prime agricultural land, traffic and flooding. Questioning the affordability, some also noted the development was in the wrong location, suggesting more density be added to the town centre.
Supporters cited the need for more housing variety for young families and downsizers as well as improving poor agricultural land to put it back into production.
Throughout the proceedings, Hodgins was commended for not only his vision but also his family being an integral and generous part of the community. Opponents made sure not to level personal criticism against Hodgins, instead focusing on his rezoning application.
Several opponents noted that Century Group was a speculator that knowingly bought land zoned agricultural. Allowing the development, which is not needed, would create a bad precedent, they warned.
"I think we must give this application a resounding no and make it quite clear that there will be no further consideration. This is farmland. Once that is clear, I think the level of farming is going to improve," said John Thomas on Tuesday.
A few opposed said residents feel worn down and it's as if the development is being forced upon them. One described the plan as "the zombie of all development proposals, nothing seems to kill it, it keeps rising from the dead."
However, supporters had enthusiastic praise for the proposal, saying it's a great deal for Delta.
Some noted the property faces an uncertain future if the application fails, including the possibility of greenhouses or the site ending up in a First Nation's hands.
Noting Delta is experiencing an aging demographic, school board chair Laura Dixon on Tuesday said the plan was a good fit for the community.
"The continual refinements from the original proposal show me that our voices have been heard by the mayor, council and Century Group... Not many communities have been able to resolve the issues of conflict around suburban and farming land use. This Southlands proposal will set an important precedent that will likely point the way for many other communities in the future," she said.
Delta Farmers' Institute president David Ryall, who was only speaking on his own behalf, expressed opposition, saying the Southlands soil can be improved to be even better than his Westham Island farm, without building housing. His view was in contrast to several prominent farmers who endorsed the project and were recently featured in a large advertisement by the Century Group.
The hearing continues today at the recreation centre. The afternoon session runs from 3 to 6 p.m. followed by the evening session from 6:45 to 9:30 p.m.
