Cape Region residents concerned about the proposed Northstar development can learn how to prepare for the upcoming zoning hearing along with other tips offered by the Sussex Preservation Coalition at its monthly meeting.

The coalition will meet from 7 to 8:30 p.m., Tuesday, July 9, at Lewes Public Library, 111 Adams Ave., Lewes. The meeting is free and open to the public; a Zoom link and more information are available at sussexpreservationcoalition.org. Attendees are asked to register by emailing spcde.org@gmail.com.

During the July 9 meeting, SPC officials will preview the Sussex County Planning & Zoning Commission hearing on the Northstar development set for 1 p.m., Wednesday, July 17. The proposed mixed-use project is planned for 433 acres between Route 9 and both sides of Beaver Dam Road west of Lewes. The proposal calls for 758 single-family homes, 94 multifamily units and 96,000 square feet of commercial space. It would add more than 2,000 residents and 13,000 vehicle trips a day on those roads.

Coalition speakers will offer residents tips on preparing for the July 17 commission hearing, describe the process and suggest ways citizens can make their voices heard by the commission.

SPC will also offer a review of several important environmental laws that were introduced during the most recent legislative session, with varying degrees of outcomes. Comments will be offered by Marissa McClenton of the Sierra Club Delaware Chapter and Sen. Russ Huxtable, D-Lewes. In addition, SPC will review its recently released Agenda for Livable Communities and update attendees on the buffer ordinance.

SPC is a coalition of local environmental groups in Sussex County dedicated to preserving and protecting local ecosystems. Its mission is to increase the impact of groups and individuals by working together to educate, organize advocate and act.