I cannot overstate how…

I cannot overstate how strongly I disapprove of the plan to expand housing into any part of the Greenbelt. Doug Ford himself promised in 2018 to protect it, and Housing Minister Steve Clark of the PC Party made similar statements just last year. Steve said "I want to be clear: We will not in any way entertain any proposals that will move lands in the Greenbelt, or open the Greenbelt lands to any kind of development."

This policy proposal, as well as its regulation proposal (ERO Number 019-6217) does both. It moves lands in the Greenbelt, and opens the land to development. I am not supportive of a government who goes back on their word in such an appalling way.

Existing towns and cities near the Greenbelt are in such a unique position to benefit from the nature that surrounds them. Developing more urban sprawl completely destroys these social and economic advantages. Expanding the Greenbelt (rather than relocating it) and building cities upward instead of outward offers the perfect opportunity to grow a thriving population while reinforcing a big part of what makes Southern Ontario such a wonderful place to live; Our close proximity to nature.

The nature of our Greenbelt sequesters carbon, provides clean drinking water, and attracts tourism. If that wasn't enough, our forests are home to a greater diversity of wildlife than any other region in Canada. With many of humanities most useful scientific discoveries coming from the natural world, the importance of doing our part to protect what little of it remains is becoming no less than absolutely necessary.

I strongly urge the Provincial Government to rethink this proposal. Increasing population density within existing boundaries and improving public transportation would not only achieve the goal of creating more affordable housing. It would create stronger local communities, be an attractive location for those looking to raise a family in Canada and so much more; It would protect the Greenbelt for future generations to enjoy, as I have.