In 2024, 99% of permit…

In 2024, 99% of permit applications were completed within the provincial guidelines - how do you get any faster than that?
The UTRCA has a board of 15 members that balances rural and urban interests, so watershed priorities remain community driven. A single board representing 81 municipalities will dilute local voices.
We could lose local programs like species-at-risk initiatives (turtles and fish), environmental education for students, specialized technical advice, and outdoor recreation.
Local funds become provincial funds: The province contributes only 2% of the UTRCA’s operating budget. London (and Middlesex county) contributes 34% of the UTRCA’s operating budget through levies and cost-sharing agreements, 34% is self-generated through user fees and donations, and 30% is obtained through applications to foundations and other levels of government. Money could be spent on new IT systems and regional governance instead of programs.