Angela Coleman, general manager of Conservation Ontario, knows the impact of environmental disasters all too well. She has helped communities during crises like floods and infrastructure failures. Just two months into her job, she faced a significant challenge: the Ontario government wanted to fast-track housing development by limiting the oversight of Conservation Authorities (CAs).
With over 20 years of experience as a lawyer working with municipalities, Coleman understands the delicate balance needed for development. She believes that minimizing oversight could endanger communities and the environment.
The government’s push began with Bill 23, known as the More Homes Built Faster Act, passed in November 2022. The bill aimed to accelerate housing projects but came with drawbacks. It repealed crucial regulations that allowed CAs to oversee development, which is vital for protecting the environment.
The consequences of this decision quickly became clear. In the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), particularly in Peel, underfunded flood infrastructure struggled to cope with severe weather events. In 2024, two significant storms brought unprecedented rainfall, flooding homes and damaging infrastructure.
The insurance costs from these floods were staggering, with estimated damages reaching $940 million across southern Ontario. Despite the chaos, the provincial government dismissed claims that they were weakening conservation authorities. Coleman emphasized that without proper oversight, municipalities would struggle with risk assessments, increasing their liability during disasters.
Bill 23’s changes have left CAs unable to consider environmental factors during the permit approval process. They also lost the ability to work alongside municipalities to provide expert advice on environmental issues. This is a serious concern, especially given the increasing frequency of severe weather.
Historically, CAs were established to manage watersheds after natural disasters like Hurricane Hazel in 1954. The idea was to prevent future calamities through informed planning. However, recent legislative changes threaten their ability to fulfill this role effectively.
Critics have pointed out that Bill 23 removes essential protections for wetlands and other natural features, which are critical in managing flood risks. Experts argue that the focus on expedited housing development does not address the root problems—failing infrastructure and a lack of comprehensive planning.
As Ontario’s housing crisis worsens, with homeownership becoming increasingly unattainable, the focus remains heavily on actually effective solutions that incorporate environmental stewardship.
Looking forward, there is hope for change. The current economic climate and changing political perceptions may present an opportunity for the government to rethink its approach to housing development. Advocates like Coleman and environmental experts suggest shifting from sprawling developments to more sustainable, affordable options within existing neighborhoods.
To truly address the housing crisis without compromising environmental integrity, the government must restore the powers of conservation authorities. Balancing development with environmental protection is crucial for building safe, resilient communities for the future.
Check out this related article: Unlocking New Audiences: How Farmers, Investors, Miners, and Parents Can Become Powerful Climate Advocates
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