Hello, I am opposed to the…

Hello, I am opposed to the sweeping changes in Bill 23/Building Homes faster act. The protected Greenbelt should have permanent protection and not be subject to changes by each new government. Taking land from one area and adding greenbelt land from another area sets a dangerous precedent of change that can never be reversed. The pressure from developers will never cease after that. Overall, the proposed changes from Bill 23 need revision or before we know it, the Greenbelt will be gone. We are the stewards of the land, the water and the creatures, all with equal importance. The checks and balances by existing agencies (authorities) are necessary to protect these lands.

This is a quote from a Toronto Star article. I hold hold the government accountable to strive for this mandate.: "Ontario needs more housing, but the housing can improve ecological, social, and financial outcomes — making Ontario an even more desirable place to live for its residents.

For example, urban intensification, coupled with green spaces, has been shown to improve quality of life, mental health, and community cohesion while lowering carbon emissions, flood risks, and urban sprawl. Further, people do not have to drive as far to work and pay less in property taxes.

For example, Calgary has recycled 1 million square feet of office space into 1,000 housing units. There are many such opportunities for building beautiful, community-centred housing in Southwestern Ontario without compromising Ontario’s most precious natural assets."

I challenge the government to use existing land parcels/buildings in existing urban areas to build high density housing in various styles. You can consult with European countries such as Germany, who have had success with housing challenges or cities like Helsinki who have eliminated homelessness by retrofitting existing buildings to provide housing, for example.

On a personal note, I would like to see new 3-4 story apartment style buildings spread throughout the Golden Horseshoe, that have a certain number of subsidized (and rental) units in them. This style of home would give many people a chance to own/rent housing, who may never afford a single family home. This style of housing is not too vertically imposing on a neighbourhood. Townhomes are beneficial as well. The neighbourhood mix of all styles of housing is healthy for communities, providing diversity, proximity to parklands and proximity to essential services.

Thank-you for the opportunity to comment on Bill 23