• Key factors to successful…

• Key factors to successful transition: How will each new conservation authority be set up? Strong local representation from each of the existing authorities being removed must be represented within the new larger authority to ensure decades worth of research and knowledge transfer to the larger conservation authority. As well local authorities should not be penalized for this transition and provincial government should provide funding for this transition. Early Indigenous consultation required.
• Opportunities or benefits: I could see the potential for administrative efficiencies, however I do not see how local conservation programs, including public engagement programs, could benefit. All Regions of Ontario are so unique I do not see how large conservation authorities will more be more efficient. In fact, I think it will be less efficient with a larger workload placed on staff resulting in delays of action or approvals.
• Governance/Board: I agree with the comments submitted by the Hamilton Conservation Authority. Which are: Consider using existing Source Protection Regions as the basis for any regional boundaries, as these are scientifically grounded, hydrologically coherent, and aligned with municipal networks that already collaborate on drinking water protection. • Establishing a board that is functional in size (for example, under approximately 20 members) and structured to provide a clear and fair representation across the area • Ensuring strong, meaningful municipal representation by retaining municipal appointment authority. 6 • Preserving local authority for municipally funded or donor-funded programs so that decisions tied to local investments remain with the watershed division and its municipal partners. • Establishing watershed-level advisory committees with clear roles in advising on local priorities and, where appropriate, delegated decision-making for local programs and services. The governance framework must also clearly define the scope and limits of the Ontario Provincial Conservation Agency’s directive powers, including which decisions are reserved for a regional CA board, what direction the OPCA may issue, and how appeals or dispute resolution mechanisms will operate. Without these safeguards, there is a real risk of centralizing authority at the provincial level in ways that diminish municipal accountability,

• Budget Process: I agree with the comments submitted but the Hamilton Conservation Authority. Which are: Maintaining meaningful local representation directly in the budget process so that each watershed division has clear input and influence, and local priorities drive levy discussions. • Respecting local special levies/funding and municipal service agreements so that locally funded initiatives—such as land acquisition, land management, trail maintenance, restoration projects, or capital works—remain under local control and cannot be redirected without municipal consent. • Using a clear, standardized regional budget framework in which each watershed division develops its own budget in alignment with local municipalities, and these are then consolidated at the regional level for transparency and oversight. • Ensuring full disclosure and due diligence on assets, liabilities, capital obligations/asset management for all participating conservation authorities before any apportionment or levy model is adopted.
• Strengthen relationships with local communities and stakeholders: I live within the Halton and Niagara conservation authorities and frequently visit the surrounding conservation areas. Each Conservation is unique. I do not see how a large scale authority will be able to strengthen relationships at a community level. Simply this discussion without extensive consultation has created a sense of distrust. I am particularly concerned with the Niagara Conservation Authority being lumped in with Western Lake Ontario region. I see this as a potential to create a larger, more distant bureaucracy that is less responsive to local municipalities, developers and farmers. There is value in having a local municipal official or trusted member of staff you can call directly.