I am writing this submission…

I am writing this submission to express my strong opposition to Miller's application to amend the site plan for Boynington Pit; to ask you, as our provincial Ministry, to look closely at the facts and implications of this application and to say no.

As taxpayers, we rely on your Ministry to ensure our protection, to ensure businesses that operate aggregrate pits adhere to licence agreeements and laws. We also rely on you, as government, to provide oversight to use of lands that have environmental impact. Please do not rubber stamp this application, because of the size and power of Miller Paving. Your resources may be stretched but it's critical that there be full due diligence in this matter and full public transparency to the decision-making.

As a resident of Uxbridge, I understand the need for aggregate pits, with licences that provide standards and limits. However, it's a major concern to learn that Miller is trying to amend the site use, rather than restore the site to natural state as agreed in its licence. Even more concerning is what would follow.

Pending your decision, Miller has already made application to the Town to permit a permanent industrial structure and dumping of 'clean' fill. This cannot be allowed on land that is part of the Moraine. If fill brings contaminants into the aquifer, there is no way to reverse the damage. Risks to water supply and air quality are paramount. With approximately 40 pits in the region, this also sets a dangerous precedent for other aggregate pit operators to follow.

Our town doesn't have the expertise or resources to monitor what happens in this pit, if oversight responsibilities are transferred to their jurisdication. It's my understanding that even under it's current licence, past MNRF site inspections have found infractions which Miller did not correct. Check your records and inspect the site again. Do not blindly approve an application without investigation.

While issues around public health and environmental protections will clearly be coming into upcoming elections, I'm not making a political pitch. I'm appealing to you as our representatives. who have the responsibility in this process to ensure compliance with our laws and protections. Please do your job.