I am commenting here as a…

I am commenting here as a heritage professional who works for an Ontario-based archaeology consulting firm. I hope you hear me.

I am writing to you today in strong opposition to the changes to the Ontario Heritage Act and the introduction of exemption zones proposed in Bill 5. Weakening heritage protections and allowing broad exemptions is not only bad planning, but it also risks erasing the unique history and character that make our communities special.

Ontario has a proud tradition of thoughtful urban planning and heritage conservation. We Ontarians have the expertise and creativity to grow our cities without sacrificing our historic places. We can do this right! Rushing through these changes undermines public trust and ignores the long-term value of our shared heritage.

I urge you to reconsider Bill 5 and work with local communities, or heritage experts would be happy to have honest and open discussions with the aim to ensure development is balanced with meaningful protection for Ontario’s historic sites, both known and not yet assessed! We can and should do better. Heritage isn't here to stop development, its change management we are passionate about. Our passion and life's work is not red tape that can just be cut. Please hear us.