I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my strong opposition to Bill 23. While I understand the urgency of addressing Ontario's housing crisis, this legislation poses significant threats to our environment, democratic processes, and municipal autonomy.

Bill 23 undermines the role of Conservation Authorities, weakens protections for wetlands and farmlands, and promotes urban sprawl. These changes jeopardize our natural ecosystems and compromise our ability to combat climate change.

The bill reduces public consultation in land-use planning and diminishes the decision-making power of municipalities. This centralization of authority erodes local governance and community engagement.

Experts, including the Ontario Housing Affordability Task Force, have indicated that land availability is not the primary barrier to housing affordability. Bill 23's approach may not effectively address the root causes of the housing crisis.

I urge you to reconsider the implications of this bill and advocate for solutions that balance housing development with environmental stewardship and democratic integrity.