On August 18, 2022, the…

On August 18, 2022, the Regional Municipality of Waterloo adopted Official Plan Amendment 6 by By-law 09-025. The official plan amendment is now before the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing for a decision in accordance with Sections 17 and 26 of the Planning Act.

As an active member of Faith Climate Justice Waterloo Region, I urge Minister Clark to approve the ROP amendment 6 by Bylaw 09-025.

Amendment No. 6 reflects the results of an extensive community engagement process beginning in 2019. The majority of community and stakeholder input consistently demonstrated strong support for the overall vision and policy direction of the proposed amendment, particularly with regard to tackling climate change, building “15-minute neighbourhoods,” protecting the environment and agricultural land, and supporting the development of affordable and “missing middle” housing.

The engagement process also benefitted from several meaningful conversations with local Indigenous peoples. This dialogue fostered relationship building and the ongoing work of reconciliation. It also helped shape the final draft of the amendment through new language in the ROP that respects Indigenous values and history, protects the natural environment, and recognizes the cultural significance of the Grand River.

Thank you.