Good afternoon, I am writing…

Good afternoon,
I am writing to voice my concerns that the "Open for Business" by-law will threaten our environment and cultural heritage while reducing transparency and opportunities for public consultation on developments. For example, the "Open for Business" by law would allow development to occur in areas designated for source water protection with complete disregard for the effects of this development on water quality. This reckless action threatens our drinking water supply. It further threatens woodland, wetland, and species at risk habitat in Southern Ontario by circumventing the protection policies laid out for these environments in the Planning Act. Finally, this by-law could be enacted without any form of public consultation. This has the potential to seriously damage communities by ignoring the needs and priorities of those that live there.

Overall, as a young person hoping to live, work, and start a family in Ontario one day, I am discouraged by the total disregard the Government has for the protection of the natural lands and vibrant communities that make this province a great place to live.