The proposal states that it…

The proposal states that it aims to "streamline and focus" Conservation Authority works. However it reads that it intends to limit the role of the Authority and hamper its ongoing abilities.

In my local Conservation Authority, provincial funding represents less than 1.5% of the Authority's revenue. This Authority delivers excellent programs. It is responsible for protecting a watershed.

This proposal reads that the role of our Authority in protecting that watershed will be curtailed. That it will no longer have a voice in development plans that will deteriorate our watershed. I oppose this proposal. This Conservation Authority has long stood as the lone voice of concern and reason in development decisions. I oppose the silencing of this voice.

With the downloading of Provincial expenses to my Municipality, it will be challenging for the City to continue to provide the >50% of the funding to the Conservation Authority. The Province is well aware of the financial pressures they are downloading on our Municipality and appear pleased that any funding cuts will appear to be City-based decisions while it is clear that they are not.

I strongly oppose the redrafting of this Act. I strongly oppose the veiled wording that has been used to characterize the changes.