I vehemently disagree with…

I vehemently disagree with the government’s proposed changes to the Conservation Authorities Act.

The proposed Lake Erie Regional Conservation Authority — covering 8 conservation authorities and 81 municipalities — is much too large to remain responsive and effective.

Data from the Upper Thames Valley Regional Conservation Authority shows that they respond to requests within the suggested time frame 99% of the time. This is efficient. How would creating another level of authority improve on this efficiency?

A single board representing 81 municipalities will dilute local voices.

How can the proposed amalgamation of the conservation authorities actually work? For example, Lake Simcoe is grouped with parts of Lake Huron and Lake Superior. How can these groups support such diverse needs properly?

Amalgamation means that there will be less local decision-making and less local input into decisions. But they will have to pay more of the costs. ALL Ontario Municipalities are struggling with homelessness and poverty. Putting more burden on them is cruel.

Saving money today can't come at the cost of the future environment. If important infrastructure floods regularly, the government will save no money at all.