Hello, I disagree with the…

Hello, I disagree with the plan to consolidate the local conservation authorities under provincial governance. I believe that individual conservation authorities are the best way to identify and act on the needs of particular regions and the ability to keep a smaller scope without added layers of bureaucracy is important for ensuring timely response to localized needs.

I do think that it is important for local conservation authorities to report on and receive permits for large scale projects that impact water management. Additionally, I think that the Ontario government should recognize local conservation areas as protected land with large scale development projects receiving some level of provincial guidance as provincial planning resources are greater.

However, local conservation authorities have only one agenda, to promote the usage of greenspaces and ensure their availability to the public. Other layers of government have to balance differing priorities which in times could lead to conflicts. For example, I very much disapprove of any proposals the Ontario government has for developing the greenbelt spaces. There is much more room for upwards growth in denser areas that we don't need to promote urban sprawl. These type of decisions would not be considered with local conservation groups and therefore the best management of these resources is left to the local groups.