Editor: Re: No need to spread fear about latest Southlands proposal, letter to the editor, Sept. 4 I love to read Douglas Bolen's letters. They're always full of things he's heard, or conjectured. Of course, it's his right to think happy thoughts regarding the development of the Southlands, but really, have you been seduced by the rhetoric? Tsawwassen residents recognize that when you put lipstick on the developer's pig, it's still the same old pig.
Notwithstanding Bolen's "lipstick," I have to admit I'm concerned every time
I read the facts on Delta's website.
Delta ignoring its taxpayer-funded engineering report on elevation levels for safe construction on a flood plan, in favour of the developer's less stringent approach, makes me concerned. Who will be liable if a natural calamity occurs and it's learned that Delta did not insist on the recommended elevation levels? When governments make such egregious decisions, it means taxpayers pay the bill. The developer will be off the hook.
Another factual worry I have is learning that Delta is ignoring expert advice from the Ministry of Agriculture. A recent letter of concern sent to Delta Council indicating the proposed farming components of the plan are not feasible, which means taxpayers will end up paying costs far greater than current estimates to maintain the developer's "gift."
As Delta has already confirmed, the irrigation and drainage expenses during Phase 1 of the development will likely cost taxpayers well over $10 million. Not only that, but the cost to taxpayers for agricultural improvements during phases 2 and 3 aren't even calculated, meaning millions more will likely be sucked out of your pockets. Look on Delta's website, the facts are right there.
Another big concern hasn't changed: traffic, traffic, traffic. A report by Delta's own director of engineering indicates some major intersections on 56th Street will fail by 2015 due to overwhelming volume. Dump trucks delivering fill by the tens of thousands - still coming. Another 3,000-plus residents and their vehicles - still coming. Improved transit services - not coming. Major road upgrades - not coming.
One of the most fascinating facts for me is the barrage of ads, events and promotional materials by the developer. It's hard not to believe the hype.
Yes, I've thought, bike trails, a farmers market. Why am I still opposing this massive development? The developer is making it sound so attractive, I was ready to jump on my bicycle and check it out last weekend but then my wife reminded me about a few more of those pesky "facts," such as the wisdom of a massive development next door to the Ramsar recognized site of Boundary Bay.
And finally we have the developer's remarks to council on July 29. In the developer's presentation, he stated his only firm intention is to build 450 condos in Phase 1. The rest of the housing mix is subject to "market forces," which means the only cottage you are likely to enjoy is the one at the Town Centre Mall.
I, for one, have decided not to buy into the developer's jiggery-pokery. I have every confidence the thousands of Tsawwassen residents who oppose this development haven't been seduced and will continue to fight in favour of doing what's right and best for our community. See you at the public hearing.
Richard Kunz
