I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my concern over the proposed legislative amendments outlined in ERO 025-0694. While boosting tourism and economic growth in Wasaga Beach is a laudable goal, the approach of transferring and selling Crown lands raises several issues:

1. Erosion of Protected Public Lands
Removing Nancy Island and large portions of the provincial park from the Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act (PPCRA) reduces the level of environmental protection currently afforded to these areas. These lands have long served as public, ecologically sensitive spaces—transferring them to the Historical Parks Act (HPA) and ultimately to municipal control may prioritize development over conservation.

2. Precedent for Future Encroachment
This proposal could set a worrying precedent: if provincial parks become sources of land for tourism development, other parks may be similarly vulnerable. This undermines the integrity of the PPCRA and casts doubt on the government’s commitment to preserving natural spaces province-wide.

3. Insufficient Environmental and Indigenous Consultation
Although the government mentions direct outreach and public consultation, it’s unclear whether comprehensive environmental impact assessments or robust engagement with Indigenous communities took place. Decisions of this magnitude demand full and transparent consultations with all stakeholders—not merely publicity postings.

4. Long-Term Risks vs. Short-Term Gains
The trade-off appears tilted toward short-term economic benefits. While downtown revitalization and tourism may bring immediate returns, the long-term ecological costs—loss of biodiversity, increased urban footprint, and diminished natural heritage—may outweigh those temporary advantages.

5. Uncertain Protection Under HPA
Transferring Nancy Island to the HPA ostensibly aims to preserve heritage, but the historical framework may not guarantee the same environmental safeguards as the PPCRA. Without clear, enforceable protections, the land remains vulnerable to future reclassification or development pressures.

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In summary, this proposal risks sacrificing environmental integrity and public good for economic development that may not be sustainable in the long run. I urge the province to explore alternative strategies for tourism enhancement that retain the protections under PPCRA, ensure thorough community and Indigenous consultation, and safeguard Wasaga Beach’s natural and cultural heritage.

Thank you for considering this feedback