I support the Province’s…

I support the Province’s objective to accelerate housing development and improve consistency and certainty in planning and building standards across Ontario. However, I am concerned that aspects of Bill 98, particularly those limiting municipal authority to require sustainable design and performance-based measures through site plan control, may have unintended consequences for public health, flooding and stormwater management.
Ontario municipalities are already experiencing increased rainfall intensity and storm unpredictability. Lot‑level stormwater controls such as vegetated roofs and other source control measures are proven, cost‑effective tools used across the province to manage runoff, reduce peak flows, and protect municipal infrastructure. These measures directly contribute to public safety by reducing localized flooding, mitigating urban heat, limiting damage to public and private property, and avoiding emergency repairs.
While Bill 98 allows for health‑ and safety‑related standards, greater clarity is needed to ensure that stormwater source control continues to fall clearly within this category. Removing municipalities’ ability to require these measures at the development stage shifts risk downstream to municipal systems and existing communities, increasing long‑term costs and vulnerability.
As the Province advances Bill 98, I encourage clear recognition that stormwater source control and related green infrastructure are essential health and safety measures that should remain available through the planning process. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comments on this important matter.