Proposed updates to the…

Proposed updates to the Ontario Wetland Evaluation System are of deep concern to me because the results will be a potential loss of designation of "provincially significant" for many wetlands in our province, as well as a lower likelihood that wetlands can be designated "provincially significant" in the future. In addition, removal of municipally designated wetlands from the policy is egregious. Removing local planning and governmental over-sight is undemocratic and illogical as local planners and residents know their own areas better than provincially-appointed bureaucrats.

The language for species-at-risk has been watered down and the new wording (what's left of it), will put many species at a disadvantage when habitat loss is taken out of consideration for new development.

Overall, Bill 23 goes too far in reducing protection for our water systems, upon which our wetlands play a significant role. There is plenty of fully-serviced land within urban boundaries for new developments through 2031, as well as under-utilized land in our built-up areas. As a province, we should explore all options to create complete, walkable communities within our built-up areas to address the climate emergency.