It is concerning as a…

It is concerning as a resident of Chatham-Kent that the provincial government would attempt to circumvent its own legislation and requirements for an environmental assessment for a property so close to a community, waterways and farmland. To attempt to resurrect an old dump site based on 40 year old information and assessments appears to be putting business interests ahead of people. In no other industry would a business be allowed to resume operations on a site based on decades old information. I picture a manufacturing plant or a food processing plant being allowed to resume operations after being mothballed for 40+ years without taking the time to review and meet the safety and health standards of the current time. It would be disallowed at all levels of government so why is this particular instance being allowed?

I also note that the legislation has a motion to exclude this site from any future EA requirements, which again is completely inappropriate and is concerning as it leaves the door open for the current and future owners to completely forego due process.

Where is the consideration for the town that will now see a substantial increase in large truck traffic, the safety of pedestrians, the significant additional wear and tear on roads that the municipality will now have to be responsible for? This is all cost on the taxpayer for a private business.

I understand a need for additional waste disposal sites, however, not at the cost of due process or the health and safety of nearby residents. There must be more appropriate locations that are not within sight of a community.

The abuse of power by the government in this situation is concerning, disheartening and truly will influence my future decisions when it comes to representation.

CK