I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed expansion of the York1 Waste Disposal Site in Dresden, Ontario, as outlined in ERO Notice 025-0389. This proposal raises significant environmental, health, and safety concerns that must be thoroughly addressed before any further consideration.

1. Environmental Risks to Sensitive Ecosystems

The proposed site is adjacent to Molly's Creek, which feeds into the Sydenham River—a habitat for at least 33 species at risk, including the Eastern spiny softshell turtle and the Salamander mussel. The potential for leachate contamination poses a serious threat to these sensitive ecosystems. Under the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act (EAA), projects with the potential for significant environmental effects require a comprehensive environmental assessment to evaluate such risks.

2. Inadequate Community Consultation and Municipal Opposition

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has unanimously opposed the project, citing inadequate consultation and potential infrastructure strain. Section 6.01 of the EAA, as amended by Bill 197, mandates that proponents obtain municipal support for landfill projects. The lack of such support from Chatham-Kent should be a critical factor in the decision-making process. In addition, leaders at the federal level, and local indigenous leaders strongly oppose this project, and the lack of community consultation.

3. Historical Use as a Bomb Disposal Site

It has come to light that the proposed site was previously used as a bomb disposal area. This history raises concerns about soil contamination and the potential presence of unexploded ordnance. A thorough investigation and remediation plan should be mandatory under both provincial and federal environmental protection statutes before any development proceeds.

4. Compliance with Environmental Protection Legislation

The Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA) emphasizes pollution prevention and the protection of the environment and human health from risks associated with toxic substances. Given the potential for hazardous waste movement and contamination, the project must comply with CEPA regulations, including obtaining necessary permits and conducting risk assessments.

5. Need for Comprehensive Environmental Assessment

Given the significant public interest and environmental concerns, the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks has proposed requiring York1 Environmental Waste Solutions Ltd. to complete a comprehensive environmental assessment process for the project. This step is crucial to ensure that all potential impacts are thoroughly evaluated and that public and Indigenous community consultations are adequately conducted.

6. Traffic

Dresden is a small community of ~2500 with 1 primary road. The estimated traffic (hundreds of large trucks daily) through the main thoroughfare would;

decimate local roads

put local school children at risk - both the elementary school and the high school are on this road and we have seen accidents where students have been hit in the past on this road

reduce the prosperity of every single main st business (people don't want to be on a road with dusty trucks barreling through at all hours)

severely reduce air quality

In conclusion;

Considering the environmental sensitivity of the area, the site's historical use, municipal opposition, and the requirements under provincial and federal environmental laws, I urge the Ministry to deny approval for the proposed York1 Waste Disposal Site expansion. A comprehensive environmental assessment is essential to safeguard the health of the community and the integrity of the local ecosystem.