I support the submission…

I support the submission made by the Hamilton Conservation Authority regarding ERO #025-1257 and share the Board’s concerns about the proposed merger of conservation authorities. HCA has a strong record of effective, locally grounded conservation, land management, and hazard prevention, and its work is closely aligned with the specific needs of the Hamilton watershed and community. I am concerned that merging HCA into a much larger regional authority would weaken local decision-making, reduce accountability to the municipalities that fund and rely on its services, and risk losing the local knowledge and partnerships that are essential to effective conservation. The Province has not provided clear evidence that a merger is necessary or that it would improve efficiency or outcomes. I believe conservation decisions are most effective when they remain rooted in local watersheds, local expertise, and local priorities, and I urge the Province to maintain the current structure while focusing instead on consistent standards, shared tools, and stable funding across conservation authorities.