As a long term resident in…

As a long term resident in neighbouring Collingwood, I am 100% against the proposed legislative amendments to the Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act, 2006, and Historical Parks Act to support the Town of Wasaga Beach’s Tourism Enhancement Proposal.

Continued preservation and protection of Wasaga Beach Provincial Park and related historical and environmental areas / zones in the province of Ontario should remain as a commitment and priority. This proposal echoes the tones of the recent greenbelt scandal and it's shocking to see the Government of Ontario continue to chip away at the continued protection of important natural, ecological lands in favour of privatization and development all in the name of economic growth.

Such places are becoming rarer and more precious. Once lost, these places cannot be reclaimed.

Wasaga Beach Provincial Park lands and sites are the foundation for tourism in the Town of Wasaga Beach and surrounding areas to begin with. Primarily, the desire to experience natural spaces free of urban encroachment.

Loss of beach Areas 1, 2, New Wasaga and Allenwood Beach to the Town of Wasaga Beach to support their revitalization of the downtown area and tourism enhancement initiatives is an act in direct conflict of the goal. Build over the park to make room for its visitors? Create increased competition for access to ever decreasing amounts of space? Build hotels, waterfront condos and homes that the average single, couple, or family could never afford? That only visitors and those with deep pockets can enjoy? Build businesses that won't support the Town of Wasaga Beach and surrounding communities year round, but cater to their seasonal visitors only?

Tourism enhancement is not long term planning and investment in the community.

Our historical sites, public parks and waterfront are not for sale. Hands off.