Thank you for the…

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the changes enacted through Bill 197, the COVID-19 Economic Recovery Act, 2020, that was passed on July 21, 2020.
I emigrated you Canada in the late ‘80s from Ireland to provide a better environment for my 3 boys in which to live, work and play. I am proud to hold dual citizenship. My boys now hold responsible positions in our society The have been educated in Canada to respect the environment. We came here sealing democracy, a voice and a chance to change our family.
Even now, in my mid 60s I worry about the legacy I leave for my children and grand children. You Canada, have inherited these three boys from me. It is my responsibility to speak up and fight for what you educated us to believe in, The Environment and Democracy.
As a Canadian citizen and resident of the Province of Ontario, I am very strongly opposed to the changes enacted under Bill 197, specifically with regard to the enhanced powers granted to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing to unilaterally remove municipal use of site plan control, require agreements between the municipality and development proponents concerning site plan matters, and make amendments to Minister’s Zoning Orders that use any of these enhanced authorities without first giving public notice or requiring public consultation.
These enhanced powers must be repealed and the power to determine the site plan controls returned to the municipalities. Further, and most importantly, no development should be allowed to take place in Ontario without the meaningful engagement and democratic consent of the people.