Developers shouldn’t be buying zoning from the City of Delta.
That’s what Coun. Lois Jackson said during council’s discussion this week on the development application to build a 40-unit condo complex on Hunter Road in Tsawwassen.
Jackson said it doesn’t seem right the developer behind the project would be asked to pay only $60,000 in a community amenity contribution.
The contribution was proposed by planning staff because the development has two additional units above what’s currently outlined in the Official Community Plan for the site.
Staff noted that council is still without a set a community benefit contribution policy, but can determine on a case-by-case basis including whether the proposed $60,000 contribution would be sufficient for the OCP amendment.
Saying such contributions shouldn’t even be considered necessary, and that the housing is needed in Delta, Mayor George Harvie noted the city retained a consultant to examine the contribution issue.
Harvie said the proposed amount for the Hunter Road application was considered too high.
Council also debated the scope of the project with Coun. Dylan Kruger arguing it’s within the town centre where the need for additional density has been identified.
Coun. Bruce McDonald agreed, saying the OCP is outdated and that the application is not unreasonable.
The majority on council agreed to send the application to a public hearing to see what residents have to say about the proposal.
The development in the 1200-block of Hunter Road would see five properties consolidated into one in order to have a four-storey apartment building with two levels of underground parking.
