Under the proposed model,…

Under the proposed model, decisions affecting our communities will be made by a board representing up to 80 municipalities, diluting accountability and transparency. Local knowledge is not just valuable, it’s essential. Local communities face unique environmental challenges that cannot be addressed with a one-size-fits-all approach. Existing conservation authorities want to work with the Province to ensure any changes maintain strong local representation and effective watershed management.

I also have concerns about potential delays for development and agriculture. Builders and farmers rely on timely, locally informed permitting. Centralizing these functions could create bottlenecks rather than efficiencies. Local developers value direct access to their local conservation authority staff who are historically instrumental in finding creative solutions to complex challenges. Planners and engineers also depend on being able to discuss designs with local experts — not teams located up to three hours away.

I also question how local expert knowledge will be accessed throughout all phases of emergency management when dealing with flooding disasters – like those that are increasingly experienced throughout Ontario due to the effects of climate change.

Overall, as a resident of Ontario living within an area currently managed by an existing conservation authority, I am strongly against this proposal.