As a long time resident of…

As a long time resident of Hamilton/Stoney Creek, I am deeply concerned about the proposed changes outlined in Bill 66. I have lived and worked in this area for many years and have grown to love the social and natural diversity here. I am a freelance graphic designer and also recently returned to school to earn my Landscape Technician certificate from Niagara College. Over the years, I have become increasingly aware of the importance of acknowledging and preserving our natural environment from which we benefit in so many ways.

I am aware that Bill 66 includes a repeal of the Toxics Reduction Act and amendments to multiple provincial statutes, including the planning act. These changes will allow municipalities to pass "Open for Business" planning by-laws aimed at attracting new major business.

I do not think these changes should be made, especially considering that they compromise transparency and public engagement because they are exempt from public notice, comment and appeal provisions in the planning act, as well as being exempt from key environmental protection laws intended to protect our water, natural heritage, farmland and human health and well-being.

I believe Bill 66 threatens drinking water, wetlands, woodlands and habitat for species at risk across Ontario. Furthermore it threatens farmland, including two million acres of natural areas and farmland across the Greenbelt. I believe this will lead to more urban sprawl and undermine efforts to make Ontario communities more livable, sustainable and resilient.

I consider these changes, including the repeal of the Toxics Reduction Act, to be a serious threat to human and wildlife health through increased exposure to toxic chemicals, and as a woman currently receiving treatment for cancer, this is of special concern to me.

My understanding is that the province already has the power to override local planning rules to designate land for development if they want to use it. This power is called a Minister’s zoning order (MZO). By proposing that the new “Open for Business bylaw” be implemented by municipalities the province is trying to distance itself from the scrutiny, criticism and accountability that would normally be directed at them if they had they used the MZO. It also increases the number of likely development proposals that will come forward as the development industry is very influential and often funds election campaigns at the municipal level.

The health of our region depends on valuing our farms, forests, clean water sources and nature and building robust and vibrant communities.

Thank you.