The Tantalus Senior Centre Society is expressing concerns over design details of a new district-commissioned centre, and a representative warned mayor and council that if plans are accepted as is, the municipality could face litigation down the road.
Seniors are saying the proposal by Solterra development of a side ventilation system - as opposed to a vertical system - may add harmful pollutants to the air and will affect the quality of those living in apartments above the air vent. They also say that the proposed domestic/home kitchen is inadequate for the 10,000 square foot facility.
"At this time, feedback from Solterra indicates that they are adamant in their refusal to consider anything but side venting," stated society representative Ray Miles in a written appeal to mayor and council.
"If Solterra's wishes are agreed to, the DOS will not only be faced with large additional expense to bring the facility up to commercial standards, but will also have to deal with the inevitable complaints and possibly lawsuits arising from its operation."
Solterra development manager Michael Bosa told the Chief that the company doesn't deal directly with the seniors' group, but it does receive their concerns through the district.
"We do what we can and unfortunately, that's who my discussions are with, that's how the communication flows," said Bosa.
"We're moving forward in good faith. We are providing what we always say we will provide. Anything additional is something the district has to discuss."
The seniors have the opportunity to express their desires and concerns directly to the building's designers through a design charette process, which is in its final stages, according to Bosa.
The district expects to sign off on the plans in the next month to six weeks, said Mayor Ian Sutherland.
"Certainly the concerns are well-founded and I think they're being addressed and will continue to be addressed," said Sutherland. "But we also have to listen to other people as well and, try to get the best project, the biggest bang for the buck."
The issue will remain in the hands of district staff unless some detail requires council approval, he said.
