I am appalled at the…

I am appalled at the introduction of Bill 66 to promote business development at the expense of the environment and wildlife. I do not agree with proposed amendments to the Planning Act as set out in Bill 66, the Restoring Ontario’s Competitiveness Act.

Provincial and municipal data show there is enough land already available in our towns and cities for our housing needs up to 2041. There is also a surplus of land for new businesses and we should be encouraging investment in these areas.

By building within our existing towns and cities throughout the Greater Golden Horseshoe we can increase the supply of affordable housing and jobs in our existing serviced communities while holding firm on urban boundaries.

Protected farmland supplies local food and enhances food security at a time when prices are rising and supplies from other countries are increasingly threatened. Farming is also economically important and provides jobs to thousands. Sprawl onto farmland destroys farm businesses and farm communities.

Water is critical to human survival. Opening areas that have been protected for the safety of our drinking water to development threatens our long term health and increases flood risks.

Natural areas provide habitat for wildlife, sequester carbon and mitigate climate change, provide recreation and clean our air.

Once gone, farmland and natural areas are gone forever.