This comment is to express…

This comment is to express strong disagreement with the proposed Bill 66.

The proposed legislation would reverse protections of the environment, viewscapes and rights of community members in areas where a so-called "Open for Business" By-Law may be passed by a municipality.

The proposed legislation is conceptually flawed. Creating opportunity for local parochial economic interests to allow development without adhering to the protections under the existing Oak Ridges Moraine, Clean Water, Lake Simcoe Protection and Planning (public notice and consultation) Acts is in conflict with balancing public, private and environmental interests that is at the core of our democratic system.

Additionally, the proposed legislation fails to describe how the Minister would evaluate and decide on a municipality's actions. Thus, the proposed legislation is also procedurally flawed.

Finally, the proposed legislation does not address how the provincial Crown and municipalities (who themselves can also be considered a Crown actor) will fulfill their Constitutionally compelled Duty to Consult to ensure section 35 Aboriginal Rights, interests and way of life are not adversely affected by a so-called "open for business" development. In short, the legislation is in conflict with Ontario's obligations under the Constitution Act, 1982 and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

In short, the proposed Bill 66 reverses environmental, community and Aboriginal rights protections that have been long established and are an integral part of the high quality of life enjoyed by citizens in Ontario. It certainly does not demonstrate clear and balanced thinking is being used by the proponents of this legislation, no matter how earnest their desire to see economic development increased in Ontario.

Surely there are policies and supports that would be more effective at encouraging sustainable economic development, without the collateral damage this legislation promises to rend on values that are fundamental to Ontarians, namely: a healthy environment; open communication; community engagement; and importantly, reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.

As an Ontario citizen, I strongly object to this misguided legislation.