Thank you for allowing me to…

Thank you for allowing me to submit my comments to the proposed changes to the Planning Act. I am not in favour of the proposed amendments. Chiefly, I feel that a Minister's Zoning Order (MZO) should be used as a tool of last resort, or one used in exception circumstances where structures or developments in an area are needed within months as a matter of public benefit.

Unfortunately, thus far, I feel they have been used too readily for developments that on the surface do not appear to necessitate the use of such powers. Additionally, the use of these MZOs have not included the community in consultation for the orders issued. This is not right.

Any development, of any size, needs consultation with the residents who will have to interact and live with the development for years to come. Their concerns need to be heard and should be addressed. This isn't a case of NIMBY mentality but one where both a developer and community need to see both sides of a situation and understand the other's point-of-view. That only comes from dialogue.

The proposed changes further enhance the power of the MZO to the detriment of the community - essentially shutting them out entirely.

Therefore, I am in opposition to the proposed changes to The Planning Act.