I strongly oppose the…

I strongly oppose the proposed amendment to York1 Environmental Waste Solutions Ltd.'s waste processing facility in Dresden, Ontario. The expansion plans, which include increasing the waste processing site area to 25 hectares, allowing a maximum daily receiving rate of 6,000 tonnes of non-hazardous solid waste, and operating 24/7, pose grave concerns, particularly in proximity to nearby residential areas.

Irish School Road is not only a vital part of the community but is also home to several residential areas housing families with small children. The proposed waste processing facility, with its increased size and operational intensity, presents potential health and safety risks to these residents. The proximity to schools, childcare centers, and homes demands a thorough assessment of the environmental and public health impacts.

The potential adverse effects on air quality, noise pollution, and the increased traffic of waste materials could detrimentally impact the well-being of the community. Exposure to hazardous materials and the introduction of new waste classes, such as asbestos-containing materials, in the vicinity of homes and schools raises serious concerns about the long-term health implications, especially for children.

The proposed construction of a new processing/sorting building, along with the installation of various equipment and infrastructure, suggests a substantial industrial footprint that may disrupt the tranquility of the residential areas nearby. Additionally, the mention of outdoor storage volumes, including non-hazardous solid waste and materials like wood, brick, and concrete, could lead to unsightly and potentially hazardous conditions for the community.

Considering the potential risks and the sensitive nature of the surroundings, I urge the Environmental Registry of Ontario to thoroughly evaluate the implications of this proposed amendment, taking into account the well-being of the residents, especially children, schools, and childcare centers in the vicinity. The community's health, safety, and quality of life should take precedence over the expansion of a waste processing facility in such close proximity to residential areas.