Subject: Oppose Amalgamation…

Subject: Oppose Amalgamation – Flamborough Resident and Parent

I am a resident of Flamborough who lives near several conservation areas. My family regularly uses these lands for walking, community events, and outdoor activities. I strongly oppose the proposal to amalgamate Ontario’s conservation authorities, as it threatens the local protection, community connection, and flood safety these areas provide.

Key Points:

-Local conservation authorities understand the unique rural landscape of Flamborough, including local creeks, floodplains, farmland, and conservation lands. This local knowledge is critical for effective flood protection and land management.

-As a rural resident, I rely on conservation authorities to safeguard our community from flooding and erosion while balancing agricultural, residential, and natural land uses.

-Conservation areas provide essential green spaces where families can gather, children can learn about nature, and local community events can take place. These community-based benefits depend on local management and engagement.

-Larger regional authorities risk overlooking local needs and priorities in favour of broader administrative efficiency, weakening community connections to these lands.

-Conservation authorities are primarily funded by local municipalities and supported by local residents. Increased provincial involvement adds bureaucracy without improving protection or community outcomes.

At a time when natural spaces are increasingly under pressure, the government should strengthen—not centralize—conservation authority governance. I urge the Province to abandon this proposal and preserve locally managed conservation authorities that protect rural communities like Flamborough and provide healthy, accessible green spaces for families.