I strongly oppose these…

I strongly oppose these changes, especially as they relate to the Hamilton Conservation Authority. The HCA is a lean, well-run organization that is responsive to the public well while always remaining within budget limits set by Hamilton city council.
Don't try to fix what isn't broken. As with municipal mergers, amalgamation will only balloon costs and lessen local accountability. I question what will happen to local assets, including land donated to the HCA on the understanding it would provide ongoing stewardship.
It is offensive to hear the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks state that the changes are designed to "get shovels in the ground." Shame on him. Conservation authorities are legislated to oversee flood protection and the like, not help the government's builder buddies bulldoze into sensitive lands, which appears to be the goal here. Scrap this initiative.