The Federation of Urban…

The Federation of Urban Neighbourhoods (Ontario) represents many resident associations in urban areas across the Province of Ontario.

Neighbourhoods across Ontario have admired and appreciated the work of conservation authorities (CAs), which develop and deliver watershed‐wide programs and services aimed at achieving a healthy and climate resilient Ontario, and in our experience can be relied upon to make sound decisions regarding water and related land management from a holistic watershed management perspective.

We strongly support the combined submission of CELA, Ontario Nature, Environmental Defence, and WCS Canada in regard to this matter who:
"strongly encourage the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks to ensure that any proposed regulations do not hamper or limit the ability of Conservation Authorities (CAs) to develop and deliver watershed‐wide programs and services aimed at achieving a healthy and climate resilient Ontario. CAs should determine programs and services with local partners, based on community needs and priorities, rather than creating a rigid division between mandatory and non‐mandatory programs and services. Further, it is crucial that a stable funding model be developed that enables CAs to fully realize their legislative purpose, which is “… to provide for the organization and delivery of programs and services that further the conservation, restoration, development and management of natural resources in watersheds in Ontario.” (see attachment).

Please note that our position in regard to CA mandate, role, resources and relations with municipalities is consistent with our recent submission in opposition to Bill 229: Budget Measures - Schedule 6 - Conservation Authorities (see attachment).