I am strongly opposed to…

I am strongly opposed to Bill 66 particularly Schedule 10. Living close to the Oak Ridges Moraine for 36 years we have witness the destruction of natural land forms, kettle lakes, and Lake Simcoe due to new sub division developments, industry, and infrastructure to support these developments.

Most development is not being built eco-friendly, nor are the roadways, and strip malls despite the existence of environmental technology and building methods - we know because we were determined to 'green' the improvements we made to our own property ( metal roof, on demand boiler operating in floor heat and hot water, reglazing windows rather than tossing into landfill, use of sustainable products including cork and bamboo flooring, switching to LED lights, low water toilets, european style appliances using less electricity and water, turning our yard into perennial gardens - mostly indigenous species to support insects and birds rather than grass, not paving the driveway, landscaping to retain rain water on site because our summers are increasingly drought like - none of our changes were subsidized by any level of government).

The provincial government needs to be responsible stewards and encourage citizens of Ontario to be as well. Unfortunately it seems the municipalities - the grass roots level of government is showing more responsible leadership lately in protecting the land, water and natural heritage. I am proud that my hometown of Aurora recently voted to not exercise the powers Schedule 10 of Bill 66 if passed will provide.

You will have no economy Mr. Ford if you continue to allow development where it will destroy more than it will support. Take a listen - can you hear the peepers (spring frogs) and bird song like we once use to? Can you see the stars at night through the light pollution? Does your glass of water taste like a spring fed creek? Does the air smell clean and crisp, or feel fresh on your skin?

Taking away the arable farmlands is tantamount to killing the soil, destroying woodlots, drying up ponds, rivers, and aquifers - causing increased cost of fresh local food which will be beyond the purchasing power of many citizens. This in turn will effect the health and welfare of citizens increasing health care costs. In fact it will affect all mammals, birds, reptiles, insects particularly the pollinators. Don't you remember learning about the food chain in elementary school Mr. Ford? Humans are at the top, but we are supported from below. Destroy the base and everything you supposedly say you care about comes tumbling down. Do better!!!!