Subject: Economic Concerns…

Subject: Economic Concerns Regarding Bill 5 and the Proposed Landfill Expansion on Irish School Road

I am writing to express serious concerns regarding Bill 5, the Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act, 2025, and in particular, its application to the proposed landfill expansion on Irish School Road in Dresden.

While the stated intent of Bill 5 is to stimulate Ontario’s economy and increase capacity in the wake of external pressures, I respectfully submit that fast-tracking a landfill expansion without proper environmental review runs directly counter to the province’s long-term economic and energy goals.

Ontario has worked hard to position itself as a leader in sustainable development, clean energy, and forward-thinking infrastructure. The landfill project proposed under Bill 5’s loosened regulatory framework threatens that progress. A short-term decision to expand waste management operations without thorough environmental assessments risks creating massive long-term costs — including remediation expenses, groundwater contamination liabilities, public health crises, and damage to the agricultural economy that sustains rural Ontario communities like Dresden.

Investments made without a full understanding of environmental risks are not strategic; they are reckless. Without rigorous oversight, the province may be forced to divert public funds to address the fallout from an avoidable environmental disaster, undermining both economic stability and public trust.

Furthermore, expanding landfill capacity without serious consideration of waste reduction strategies, recycling innovation, and clean energy integration runs contrary to Ontario’s stated commitments to a greener, more resilient economy. It sends the wrong message to investors, businesses, and communities who are looking for leadership that prioritizes sustainability alongside growth.

now is not the time to gamble with Ontario’s environmental and economic future in a rush to respond to short-term pressures. I urge you to reconsider the application of Bill 5 as it relates to the Irish School Road project. Sustainable economic development demands thorough planning, public consultation, and environmental responsibility.

I respectfully request that you restore the environmental assessment process for this project and demonstrate a commitment to true, future-focused economic leadership.

Thank you for considering these important concerns. I look forward to your response.