I support efforts to…

I support efforts to streamline and clarify policy direction as long as they maintain the goal of directing development away from areas of natural hazards where there is an unacceptable risk to public health or safety or of property damage and not create new or aggravate existing hazards. I recommend:

- Re-instating the CA Working Group of provincial agencies, CAs, municipalities and the development industry to work collaboratively on updated policies. Effective policies can only be developed if all voices are at the table, working together to improve the overall system.

- Defining the new term "areas of highest risk" and providing clear updated technical guidance/criteria for what constitutes these areas.

- Ensure policy direction recognizes the connected nature of natural features and functions across municipal/political boundaries. The health and integrity of the overall system should not be sacrificed in the interest of local decision making.

- Ensure policy recognizes that the planning for stormwater management is integral to minimizing impacts to downstream natural hazards and natural heritage systems. Increased risks to human health, safety, property and the environment may arise if appropriate policies are not in place to mitigate impacts of growth.

- Technical guidance on how policies should be implemented is also essential to ensure efficient and consistent application of the policies.