I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my opposition to the proposal for an interim combined sewer system to support development at 955 Lake Shore Boulevard (Ontario Place).

This proposal contradicts decades of efforts by the City of Toronto to separate and replace combined sewers, a crucial step in preventing the discharge of raw sewage into Lake Ontario. It also undermines international agreements aimed at safeguarding water quality and habitat in the Great Lakes.

The discharge of untreated effluent into the lake poses a serious risk to human health, affecting water quality at beaches, the safety of fishing activities, and the overall appeal of the lake as a destination for both Canadian and international visitors.

Furthermore, I am concerned that the province has not engaged in any public consultations regarding this matter. Why has this not been done? How is this proposal being allowed to proceed without public input?

Discharging untreated sewage or effluent into the Western Channel of Lake Ontario, can lead to contamination that jeopardizes both human health and the broader ecosystem. We have learned hard lessons from past crises like WALKERTON, and we should not be taking steps backward in protecting our water systems.

This proposal seems to prioritize private sector interests over the public good, and it threatens the stability of the lake ecosystem at a time when biodiversity loss is already a critical issue.

It is important to continue prioritizing public health and the integrity of our natural resources, rather than taking risks that could lead to another preventable disaster.

I urge you to DENY this permit and reconsider the implications of this proposal for both the environment and the public.