RO 025-1257 – Opposition to…

RO 025-1257 – Opposition to forced regional consolidation of conservation authorities
I strongly oppose the proposed regional consolidation of Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities.
Local conservation authorities have deep watershed-specific expertise and strong community relationships that larger regional bodies cannot replicate. Forcing consolidation risks losing this local knowledge, reducing accountability, and weakening flood protection and conservation outcomes.
No evidence has been provided that the current system is inefficient or that forced amalgamation will deliver promised savings. Voluntary collaboration between CAs already works well — mandated mergers are not needed.
The proposal lacks critical details: no maps of new regional boundaries, no governance model, and no cost-benefit analysis. It is impossible to comment meaningfully without this information.
Holding a 45-day consultation over the holiday season without releasing core details does not constitute genuine public engagement.
Please withdraw this proposal. Instead, support and properly fund our existing conservation authorities, enhance voluntary collaboration, and standardize processes where needed — without destroying successful local institutions.
Thank you.
Linda