Sean T. Simpson

The meeting included the appointment of the Panel Chair and Alternate Chair. The primary business involved a design review for a proposed six-storey hotel at 14178 – 104 Avenue. The Panel supported the project, providing numerous recommendations concerning site design, form, building character, landscaping, CPTED principles, sustainability metrics, and accessibility features.

The Advisory Design Panel reviewed a new project proposal for a 25-storey mixed-use building, which includes an OCP amendment, rezoning, and a Development Permit. The panel supported the project, provided it addresses several recommendations regarding design viability, site functionality, childcare facilities, building form and character, landscape strategies, CPTED principles, sustainability initiatives, and accessibility enhancements.

The committee discussed potential improvements to the Surrey Tree Protection Bylaw regarding agricultural land and tree removal, and recommended that Council direct staff to further examine these opportunities. A presentation on the city's water meter program highlighted incentives for single-family homes, and the committee provided input on messaging regarding utility sewer charges. Additionally, the committee reviewed the 2025 accomplishments report to Council and adopted the 2026 Annual Work Plan, which includes items such as stormwater pond review, illegal dumping follow-ups, and biodiversity design guidelines. Plans for the upcoming Party for the Planet event were also presented.

The council meeting addressed various planning reports, zoning bylaw amendments, and development variance permits for multiple sites. Key discussions included the transition from single-family residential to small-scale multi-unit housing, the endorsement of a King George Boulevard Bus Rapid Transit design, and the award of contracts for road, water main, and arena refrigeration improvements. The council established a Mayor's Health Advisory Panel to address health-care access and directed staff to expedite building permits for medical facilities. Additionally, the council reviewed the city's 2025 annual consolidated financial statements and considered amendments to amenity cost charge bylaws and the drinking water conservation plan.

The panel reviewed and supported a new proposal for a 34-storey mixed-use tower project, providing recommendations on building design, accessibility, landscape, and sustainability. Additionally, the panel provided conditional support for a development proposal consisting of two residential towers and a hotel, advising on aspects such as building height, shadowing, amenity space layout, and sustainability targets.