I have reviewed the proposed…

I have reviewed the proposed legislation and am concerned about development in prime agricultural land. Growing up in the 70s in southwestern Ontario I am shocked by the amount of agricultural land lost. Of course we can’t just have fields and houses we need trees or we loose all of the soil to erosion. Looking at our province it would be forward thinking to encourage development north in places like Sudbury and the Sault where housing is more affordable and we are not using prime agricultural land. I have grave concerns with the close proximity the Premier has to developers in the GTA. South western and eastern Ontario is not where we need more people living. Move governement buildings and provide incentives for regulatory organizations etc to move out of South Ontario to communities north.
Additionally It would be beneficial if Municipalities were to relinquish some of their archaic control of how people use their own land. I know many young people who are attempting to get into the real estate market but a traditional brick and mortar home is often beyond their reach. I see that you have included farms being able to build more then one residence on a property. Good first step but those homes need to be a bit more flexible. Tiny homes, renovated trailers and converted shipping containers are also viable options for young people who are trying to just get into the market.
Not being able to get a mortgage on vacant land is another barrier to future real estate acquisition. Vacant land is more affordable but only if a person can get a mortgage on vacant land.
I would also like to see limiting regulations on companies that purchase single family dwellings and convert to rental units. Home ownership is being limited to the old and extremely wealthy.
Just building more homes is not necessarily the answer to our housing crisis. As a mother of 4 adult children, all of whom have careers and good jobs, I would hope they can one day purchase a home.