As a resident of Ontario, I…

As a resident of Ontario, I am very concerned with Bill 162, as it challenges so much of what I value in the province, especially the democratic processes which have been developed by government, to protect our land and our rights.
This Bill further erodes the Environmental Assessment processes. These processes were developed for a reason, to protect our natural resources. Any erosion of this process further accelerates climate change and the loss of habitat for wildlife. At this late stage, we must do all that we can to protect green spaces and species at risk.
Secondly, governments at all levels should respect Regional Official Plans. Forcing boundary expansions in Waterloo and Halton, where there has been a coherent plan in place, is an act against democracy, and does not respect all the efforts that go into those plans. This is shameful for one level of government to disregard another. Furthermore, these boundary expansions could compromise drinking water in those expanded areas.
Finally, Bill 162 paves the way for more pavement over farmland for highways like the #413. From an environmental point of view, the agricultural lands that will be lost are essential to the breadbasket of Ontario. As climate change accelerates, we need to ensure that we can produce food close to home, so we need this land for food. It is well known by the people of Ontario, that the more highways you build, the more cars and congestion you generate. More highways are not the solution. Public transport, walkable communities, these are known practices that make a difference.
I do not support Bill 162 for more reasons then I can fit in this space.
Thank you for allowing me to share my perspective. Please do what you can to stop this Bill.