I am deeply concerned about…

I am deeply concerned about the proposed changes outlined in Bill 23. Our conservation authorities do a crucial job of protecting the natural environment, and their mandate goes FAR beyond protecting Ontario's citizens from natural disasters. Their role is an essential one in its current form, and should NOT be changed at all. The only thing I agree with is trying to get all levels of local government to speed up their decision-making processes. The public should still be consulted, but less time should be allowed for public bodies to render decisions.

Please see below as to what the role of Conservation authorities is now, and "forever should be". This is taken from the Ontario Conservation Authorities website. The protections it offers for land, for wetlands for wood lands is essential, nay VITAL to the well-being of this province
Mandate
"The core mandate of Conservation Authorities is to undertake watershed-based programs to protect people and property from flooding and other natural hazards, and to conserve natural resources for economic, social and environmental benefits.

Objectives
Develop and maintain programs that will protect life and property from natural hazards such as flooding and erosion
Conservation Authorities work in partnership with municipalities and others to protect life and property through the development of programs and services that minimize or prevent the impact of flooding and erosion.

Develop and maintain programs that will conserve natural resources:

Ensure Ontario's water resources are properly safeguarded, managed and restored
Conservation Authorities protect, restore and effectively manage impacts on Ontario's water resources such as lakes, rivers, streams and groundwater.

Protect, manage and restore Ontario's woodlands, wetlands and natural habitat
Conservation Authorities develop programs that protect natural heritage and habitats and promote watershed stewardship practices that lead to healthy watersheds.

Connect people to the natural environment
Through the lands they manage and own, as well as the educational programs they deliver, Conservation Authorities provide opportunities for people to understand and appreciate the value of their natural environment as well as the social and economic benefits of protecting that environment."

I do urge the provincial government to rethink Bill 23 and not rush to "Pave paradise and put up a parking lot" ( to quote Joni Mitchell) Thank you for your attention