I have reviewed the proposed…

I have reviewed the proposed amendments and associated Wasaga Beach Supporting Maps.pdf file and do not support the change in use for the Beach Area 2 land.

The majority of the area west of the 6th St N entrance is a combination of parkland and parking currently under the Ontario Parks system. Transferring this area to the Town of Wasaga Beach will permanently remove this area from the Annual Day-Use Vehicle Permit program, decreasing tourist traffic to both the town, Beach Area 1 amenities, and the Nancy Island site.

In addition, this parkland in proximity of the beach is enjoyed by members of the public who for religious reasons remain fully clothed, wear articles of clothing which are inconvenient at beaches, or who for modesty reasons prefer to avoid partially clothed people whom they are unrelated to. Putting this park land at risk of being developed will create an equity issue in the community.

I therefore recommend against the transfer of Beach Area 2 land. Doing so will create a risk that the park lands within it will be irreversibly developed. There is a large amount of undeveloped/underdeveloped property already near Beach Area 1 which should be maximized for tourism before any changes to Beach Area 2 should be justified.