Hello, The proposed…

Hello,

The proposed legislation will be counter to many efforts to improve the livability and sustainability of our beautiful province of Ontario.

The proposed piece to allow municipalities to essentially bypass provincial planning policies should be removed. Provincial planning is necessary to create a cohesive planning system that creates vibrant and age-friendly cities, protects valuable farmland and natural resources, reduces dependence on cars, and increases sustainability. The provincial plans in place are taking us in this direction and helping us to create the best possible Ontario for future generations.

Should any municipalities be allowed to bypass provincial plans, the plans will lose their value, as other municipalities will feel the need to bypass provincial plans to stay competitive.

While it might be true that development should be easier in Ontario, the solution would be to streamline infill development processes, not to remove restrictions that ensure development meets minimum standards that are beneficial to everyone. Frankly, the current proposed legislation is an easy solution that will cause even more problems in the future. Please focus on improving the existing processes, and please keep in effect all provincial plans, and do not allow municipalities to bypass them.

Thank you for your consideration.