I strongly oppose the…

I strongly oppose the changes to the Greenbelt plan. I think the idea is short sighted, uninspired and only makes sense for developers.

The removal of 7400 acres of the Greenbelt to build 50,000 new homes does not add up. The provincial government has a goal of building 1.5 million new homes within 10 years. 50,000 only equates to 3% of the goal while creating a precedent for further destruction of critical wetlands, farmlands and culturally significant lands. Additionally, the homes that will be built on these lands are not going to solve the affordability crisis. These homes will be for those that afford expensive, $1M homes that require cars. These are not the developments Ontario needs.

The Greenbelt was created to protect the headwaters of Ontario's river system around the GTA; connect forests and wetland ecosystems - thus providing important habitat for several species; and, preserve farmland that provides local, healthy food for Ontario and the world. The Greenbelt has a purpose far beyond what Bill23 is telling Ontario. It needs to be protected.

None of this necessary. There is plenty of white field space and other areas in the GTA that are much better suited to provide REAL affordable housing in areas that people actually want to live. Ontario should be focussed on creating sustainable communities where people can afford to live, move quickly and cheaply with public transit, walking and biking.

The government should listen to Ontarians, planners and scientists: Hands off the Greenbelt.