I am strongly opposed to the…

I am strongly opposed to the changes to the Ontario Heritage Act outlined in Bill 108 (Schedule 11).

Weakening the Ontario Heritage Act -- making it easier for heritage buildings to be demolished or unsympathetically developed -- is wrongheaded. If this action is a good decision, then why was the heritage community not consulted and brought on board?

Especially wrong is the move to have appeals by the Local Planning Appeals Tribunal rather than the specialized Conservation Review Board. This will not protect our heritage.

Another proposed change is "Establishing in regulation prescribed principles that shall be considered by municipalities" -- what will these regulations entail and who is to develop them?

Ontario is fortunate to have vast heritage resources. Our small towns and cities have many heritage buildings. Some still have their original purpose, others have been converted for new uses -- often respecting the historical fabric and returning a valuable aesthetic and historically significant amenity to the community.

Unfortunately, municipalities are also losing built heritage -- and once lost, a building is gone forever. Weakening the Ontario Heritage Act -- making it easier for heritage buildings to be demolished or unsympathetically developed -- is wrongheaded.

One only need look at the number of visitors to well-preserved towns like Niagara-on-the-Lake or Port Hope to see that heritage buildings are valued. Toronto's Doors Open event has been an incredible success for 20 years, and its public and private historical tours thrive. Be the "government that listens" and remove this part of Bill 108.

Thank you.