On January 26 Council agenda there is my motion about the proposal to consolidate  Ontario’s conservation authorities; specifically to consolidate the 36 conservation authorities into 7 regional ones with the stated aim of improving consistency, modernizing service delivery and freeing up resources for frontline work.  My motion has been seconded by Councillor Asselstine.   To read it go to Council agenda and scroll down. to 14.1

I regret that the motion is so long but I felt the importance of the issue demands a review of current state so it is understood why the risks of consolidation are as serious as they are.  Currently the Conservation Authorities in Ontario are seen as a model across Canada with their unique structure determined by watersheds.  This structure enables and promotes specialized local expertise  for effective natural hazard management, strengthened community relationships, stewardship programs and protection and restoration of the ecological health of Lake Simcoe.

Currently King Township is served by 2 conservation authorities (Toronto Regional Conservation Authority and Lake Simcoe Regional Conservation Authority). Under  the proposal we will continue to be served by two authorities except that one of them, LSRCA will be part of a much larger jurisdiction. Hence we do not see benefits for King Township with the consolidation and do see significant risk. This proposal is just one more reduction in protecting our natural heritage.

I have been able to read submissions to the Environmental Registry of Ontario (ERO) about this proposal (ERO No. 025-1257) by five different conservation authorities. All of them express firm opposition.

Deputations expressing your support or lack thereof of this motion can be made.as I provided notice of it. To do so please register at clerks@king.ca by noon on  January 26 or If you prefer you can e-mail your comments to clerks@king.ca and they will be distributed to Council members and appropriate staff.