I am strongly opposed to the…

I am strongly opposed to the provincial proposal to consolidate Ontario’s 36 Conservation Authorities into just seven large regional bodies. For communities like ours along the Lake Erie shoreline—one of the most flood-prone regions in the province—this plan poses serious risks to public safety, environmental protection, and responsible municipal governance.

On November 13, the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) Board passed a resolution that clearly reflects what our community needs as the province moves forward:

Full and meaningful consultation with municipalities about how a new regional authority—and our local agency—would be funded.

A strong, accountable local voice that understands our watershed and ensures timely, transparent decisions.

Local expertise grounded in the knowledge of our unique landscapes and environmental challenges.

Local offices that remain accessible to residents, even if a larger regional system is imposed.

Clarity for Conservation Authorities with foundations, so their important work is not disrupted.

Transparent costing to understand what amalgamation would actually require—and who would end up paying for it.

The government says this merger will be “more efficient.” But there is no evidence that consolidating Conservation Authorities will improve environmental protection, service delivery, or development approvals. What we do know is that ERCA has already been modernizing on its own: digital permitting, faster turnaround times, cost-saving internal reviews, stronger communication, and increased transparency are already in place—without dismantling local governance.

Perhaps most troubling is that Conservation Authorities were notified of this plan only hours before it was announced. This is not how you build trust or sound public policy.

As Chair, I am committed to protecting our local Authority because I believe in accountable, watershed-based decision-making. But I am deeply concerned that this consolidation will leave our municipality facing reduced service levels and higher costs downloaded directly onto local taxpayers.

Stronger environmental management comes from local knowledge, not larger bureaucratic structures. Consolidation threatens to undo a system that has worked for decades—and our community cannot afford that.