To Whom It May Concern, I am…

To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal for an interim combined sewer to support development at 955 Lake Shore Boulevard (Ontario Place). This proposal is deeply concerning, as it undermines decades of efforts by the City of Toronto to separate and replace combined sewers, a critical initiative aimed at preventing the discharge of raw sewage into Lake Ontario. The installation of a combined sewer at this location would run counter to international agreements designed to protect water quality and habitat in the Great Lakes. These agreements have been established to safeguard one of the world's most significant freshwater ecosystems, and this proposal threatens to erode those hard-won protections. The effluent from such a sewer could jeopardize human health, negatively impacting water quality at beaches, recreational fishing, and the overall appeal of the lake as a destination for Canadian and international visitors alike. Furthermore, I am deeply troubled by the lack of public consultation regarding this proposal. The absence of engagement with the general public demonstrates a disregard for transparency and accountability, especially on an issue with such far-reaching environmental and societal implications. It is also important to highlight that this proposal, which appears to prioritize private sector interests, is not in the public interest. At a time when we are facing severe biodiversity loss and an urgent need to protect our natural resources, this plan threatens the stability of Lake Ontario’s ecosystem. The lake is not only a vital source of drinking water but also a cornerstone of our regional environment and economy. For these reasons, I strongly urge you to deny the permit for this interim combined sewer. We must prioritize sustainable, forward-thinking solutions that protect our natural environment and ensure the long-term health and vitality of Lake Ontario for future generations.
My sincere thanks for your attention to this matter.
A life-long resident and lover of Toronto, Ontario and Lake Ontario