While the Conservation…

While the Conservation Authorities (CA) have much room for efficiencies and process stream-lining, this is no different than any other government agency or arms-length agency. I speak from direct experience having worked for art least one Federal, Provincial, and Municipal government, the Niagara Escarpment Commission, and 2 CAs in my career so far.

To amalgamate 36 CAs into 7 is sheer ridiculousness. The local knowledge and partnerships will be watered-down (pun partially intended) and a regional approach will not nearly be as effective to protect person and property - which is the whole purpose of the CAs.

You have asked for the public to respond regarding 5 questions:

What do you see as key factors to support a successful transition and outcome of regional conservation authority consolidation?
There is not going to be a successful transition or outcome if a regional CA consolidation is implemented. Like anything any government tries to substantially change - disaster will inevitably result. The public does not trust the Ford government after the Greenbelt debacle; stay away from the CAs.

What opportunities or benefits may come from a regional conservation authority framework?
None - see response above.

Do you have suggestions for how governance could be structured at the regional conservation authority level, including suggestions around board size, make-up and the municipal representative appointment process?
The government, and especially the Ford government, cannot be trusted with matters pertaining to the environment. As a taxpaying citizen - suggest efficiencies - but keep your hands off matters pertaining to the environment.

Do you have suggestions on how to maintain a transparent and consultative budgeting process across member municipalities within a regional conservation authority?
The process in place now is sufficient and provides equality. Again, I speak from experience having worked for 2 CAs previously.

How can regional conservation authorities maintain and strengthen relationships with local communities and stakeholders?
Regional CAs CAN'T maintain and strengthen relationships with local communities and stakeholders. Period. But local CAs (36 of them) certainly have the ability to maintain and strengthen relationships with local communities and stakeholders.

As a taxpaying citizen for 30 years, I strictly disagree with and strongly dissent the provincial government from meddling with the CAs.

Hussaan Basit: you should be ashamed of yourself. Shame on you.