Peace and Environment News* April 1996
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Peace and Environment News * April 1996 |
by Meg Sears
Participants had an air of resignation at the hearings on Bill 20 in February. The proposed Ontario land use planning act will dismantle the carefully crafted, environmentally sound planning act passed under the previous government.
In the name of "clearing obstacles to development," the Conservative government is preparing to put ecosystem planning on indefinite hold. Environmental impact studies will be at the discretion of municipal councils. Ontario is losing "provincially significant" designation for wetlands on Precambrium Shield (including Ottawa-Carleton's Carp Hills and South March Highlands), leaving it up to Councils of the day to protect these ecological treasures. Intervenor funding for citizens' groups appearing before the Ontario Municipal Board is being eliminated, so that it will be much more difficult for citizens to have a voice in planning decisions.
The Tory planning scheme claims to open the way to a rosier economic future and to "empower municipalities." But it will likely accomplish the very opposite of these goals. The proposed planning system strips politicians of the tools to govern responsibly, and it clears the way for environmentally indefensible development. Some developers may make short-term gains, but the long-term costs to the province will be staggering.
It is not too late to let your MPP know what you think about Bill 20. For further information, refer to the February PEN Members' Supplement, or call 832-2806.
Converted April 11, 2000 - Lg
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