All in all the proposed…

All in all the proposed consolidation of conservation authorities is a very bad policy initiative. It is akin to the Ford government’s misguided “strong mayor” policy, as is solves a “problem “ that only the Ford government perceives.

To take just one local example here are a few of the problems that will be faced if consolidation occurs.

Dilution of the Lake Simcoe Protection Plan:
A mega-regional authority responsible for multiple Great Lakes watersheds is far less able to maintain the place-based focus the LSPP requires.

Loss of local expertise:
Lake Simcoe’s unique and worsening pressures—phosphorus pollution, rising chloride from road salt, climate-driven flooding risks and natural-heritage cover—require scientists who know this watershed intimately.

Weaker local governance and accountability:
LSRCA’s municipal representation keeps decisions tied to local needs. Under consolidation, local voices would be reduced, and accountability diminished.

Higher costs and complexity:
Large-scale amalgamations often increase costs due to the integration of systems, staff teams and geographically dispersed operations—despite claims of “efficiency.”