I concur with the Canadian…

I concur with the Canadian Environmental Law Association (CELA) when they state that "Bill 66 represents an unprecedented and unacceptable attack on legislative provisions which currently safeguard environmental quality and public health and safety throughout Ontario."

I am also worried when I hear that City of Hamilton Planning Staff Staff "have reviewed the proposed legislation and have a number of concerns, including a lack of need for the tool in Hamilton, potential unintended consequences from the tool, concern over potential impacts arising from exemptions to the Greenbelt Act and Clean Water Act, a lack of information on the proposed Regulation and prescribed purpose, and general questions on implementation."

As an urban geography professor and Hamilton resident, I am aware of the multiple benefits that a protected and intact greenbelt offer for GTHA residents. Putting the greenbelt at increased risk of development is not necessary for urban growth and is potentially dangerous to environmental and human health.

I urge Ontario's leaders to reject Bill 66.

Thank you.