I have several concerns…

I have several concerns about the proposed amalgamation of Ontario's Conservation Authorities. First the good. I am all for having standardized policies, fees and levels of staffing and technical capabilities removing duplication and streamlining permit approvals and of course transparency, faster service and decisions based on sound science.

I disagree with CA's having to align with provincial priorities on housing, infrastructure, housing and climate resilience as those priorities could change with a change in government and may be at odds with the needs and/or plans of municipalities.

I am also not in favour of having a provincial body oversee CA's unless the board is made up of only regional representatives with perhaps a chair from the province with no voting authority.

An item that is not addressed in the proposal but is of great concern to me is whether current public use of CA properties will continue., particularly hunting. Currently in my area hunting is allowed on CA property but that is not consistent with all CA's in Southern Ontario. Under this proposal would land use still be dictated by the municipality or will the regional board decide what activities will be allowed?

If you get a government or regional director who is against hunting it would be possible to ban that activity from the entire regional CA. Is this something that may be added to "proposed changes to the Conservation Authorities Act that may be introduced at a later date."?

These are the concerns I have currently.
Thank you for the opportunity to submit comments.