This submission is on behalf…

This submission is on behalf of the Ontario Association of Heritage Professionals (OHAP).

Our main concerns with the proposed changes are:

• The lack of consultation with the heritage community, local communities or indigenous communities;
• Meeting the targets of the Report of the Housing Affordability Task Force will require creative solutions. It is imperative to include existing buildings in these discussions because of their role in sustainable, healthy, and resilient communities;
• We recognize that the existing heritage system needs review and revision. However, Bill 23 as proposed, introduces significant uncertainty. It will have unintended consequences and in our professional opinion, could result in greater delays and confusion; and
• Increasing the threshold for listing and designation under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act will make it more difficult to address reconciliation as well as issues of equity, diversity and inclusion in the protection of cultural heritage resources in Ontario.

We have provided a letter including a chart that details our concerns and suggestions/recommendations (which can also be found at:https://lhcheritage.com/cms/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/OAHP-CAHP-Letter…). We would also reiterate that OAHP members are willing to provide their expertise and further insight by participating in stakeholder consultation, working groups or advisory bodies. We would be pleased to assist with identifying potential barriers and issues with proposed legislation and regulations from a practical, solutions-based approach.