Given the significance of…

Given the significance of this legislation and its impact on municipalities, I am extremely disappointed and beyond upset that Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) was not provided an opportunity to present to the Legislature's Standing Committee on Heritage and Culture during its review of Bill 23. I have read the AMO written submission and it is comprehensive and thoughtful. I would urge the provincial government to strongly consider the comments contained in AMO's submission.

The development of a community by its very definition should reflect the uniqueness of each community. While some basic consistent policies make sense, a cookie cutter approach across the province which runs roughshod over decisions that should be made at a local level by municipalities and conservation authorities is very troublesome.

Municipalities such as the City of Hamilton are already having financial challenges with meeting their existing infrastructure needs. The approach contained in Bill 23 is simply going to exacerbate those challenges.

Most people agree and recognize the need for more, safe and affordable housing. The Province needs to revisit its approach and collaborate with municipalities and conservation authorities who have the "boots on the ground" and can speak with knowledge and understanding of their unique communities, rather than simply imposing an ideology on those communities.