I very strongly object to…

I very strongly object to the numerous proposed changes to provincial planning policy and legislation that would remove environmental protections, discourage intensification and efficient development, and encourage urban sprawl. These changes will not address the need for affordable housing. They are very clearly designed only to benefit developers seeking to profit from the development of the greenbelt and other protected lands.

These actions to completely re-set the planning landscape in Ontario with minimal public or municipal input are short-sighted, ill-informed, and will have dire consequences for Ontarians, Ontario communities, the natural environment and our farmland for generations to come. In a time when the consequences of climate change are becoming clear, when food security is an issue throughout Ontario, and municipalities are searching for new revenue streams that will allow them to maintain infrastructure, these changes (proposed and some already implemented) will only exacerbate these problems.

I urge you to repeal Bill 23, and retain all PPS and Growth Plan policies that are designed to curb sprawl and protect farmland and natural areas.