I am deeply concerned about…

I am deeply concerned about the proposal to amalgamate the Conservation Authorities. The CAs, as they exist today offer on the ground knowledge of their watersheds and there is a concern that with the amalgamation this knowledge will be lost overtime. CAs and municipal staff work closely together to ensure that matters of public safety and environmental issues, such as stormwater management, are addressed in a timely and manner.

It is recognized that the existing CAs provide different levels of service and offer different programs, but this is due to their different geographies and the funding they receive. I would suggest that the Province look at other options to better ensure that the CAs offer consistent programs and policies rather than through amalgamation.

I do not feel that CAs are the reason why the Province is in a housing crisis. The work of CAs to protect the public safety against hazards is crucial given the impacts of climate change.

The proposed amalgamation will not serve to build more houses faster. It appears that it will add additional bureaucracy and reduce accountability to the local residents and municipalities accessing the CAs services.

Additionally, the cost associated with the transition to amalgamated CAs is a concern.

In summary, I do not support the proposed amalgamation of the Conservation Authorities.