What if we say no to Southlands?

Southlands gives us an opportunity to shape the future of Tsawwassen, but not without asking how we will:
• Revitalize Tsawwassen economically and culturally?
• Support local agriculture in a meaningful way?
• Grow as a community?

Response

There will be more people in Tsawwassen, as with any development proposal. And a new neighbourhood will most certainly change the social fabric of our community.

But, if we listen to those who say no to Southlands, what are we really saying 'no' to?

• We say no to the equivalent of another Boundary Bay Regional Park dedicated to the community in perpetuity.
• We say no to 220 acres of land dedicated for a community trust farm and farm school, and another 165 acres of forested and other natural areas — the single largest dedication of land for parks, trails, open space and agriculture to the municipality in the history of Delta.
• We say no to Kwantlen Polytechnic University to fund and create an agricultural school that would promote small-scale, sustainable agriculture, and possibly other Post Secondary Education opportunities.
• We say no to more housing and insist that only farming be permitted, without considering what impacts intensive, large-scale farming might mean for the community.
• We say no to the kind of housing — modestly-sized, ground-oriented townhomes — that is a key component of any community.
• We say no to more people, new residents that will help Tsawwassen keep its schools open, businesses healthy and public transportation functional.

If you believe that the careful work and consideration of the community that has been the hallmark of our consultation is worth supporting then please be heard. There's much at stake for the future of Tsawwassen in deciding the Future of Southlands.