Further to the provided…

Further to the provided discussion questions and request for comment on the growing the Greenbelt please note the following five comments:

1) Expand currently proposed boundaries of protection. A larger area should be considered for protection in the expansion of the Greenbelt.  Greater Greenbelt protection through enhanced environmental regulation and environmental assessment measures, as well as increased Conservation Authority oversight in addition to a greater area of protection included in the Greenbelt should be prioritized over all other considerations.

2) Stop the use of ministerial zoning orders (MZO) to fast track development in the Greenbelt and beyond. In most cases both business cases and environmental assessments do not justify the use of MZOs.

3) In consideration of protecting the Greenbelt the government should restore and give more power to Conservation Authorities. Not just in the Greenbelt but across the province. Conservation authorities should not be undermined by business goals including ensuring those with current business interests not serving on conservation authorities in order to avoid either potential or real conflicts of interest.

4) More rigorous environmental assessments and regulations should be put in place to ensure the protection of the environment. This includes stiff enforcement of illegal environmental acts and any actions that violate regulations or the common good of the surrounding community. Conservation Authorities should be strengthened and not be undermined by business goals.

5) For even more specifics, cancel the destruction of the Duffins Creek Wetland, cancel Hwy 413 that paves over 400 acres of Greenbelt and 2000 acres of farmland, Stop the use of ministerial zoning orders (MZO) to fast track development, and enhance environmental assessments and regulations including enhanced impartial conservation authority involvement.