[All] Wilmot Announcements, New Authoritarian Bill 17 Guts Green Standards, Bill 5 Deadline, Provincial Scandal, Ontario Budget, New Foodbelt, And More!

[Kevin Thomason]

Good Day!,

Lots of breaking news as the Region of Waterloo gets called out for their lack of transparency nationally as they continue to waste taxpayer money on the unwanted mega-industrial site, the province announces authoritarian Bill 17 that will give MMAH unprecedented powers and gut Green Development Standards, the May 17th deadline rapidly approaches to comment on the horrifying Bill 5 that will create lawless Special Economic Zones and destroy endangered species, heritage and archeological sites, yet more provincial scandal as aides closest to Ford are sanctioned, a troubling new Ontario Budget is announced for 2025, a wonderful new Foodbelt is proposed, and lots more!

Here’s the latest:

1) Bill 5 ERO Deadline May 17th at 11:59pm - Time is rapidly running out to comment on the Environmental Registry of Ontario (ERO) and take action to oppose Bill 5 the “Protect Ontario By Unleashing Our Economy Act”, a dangerous attack on our rights, environment, and democracy.  We encourage you to join the citizens and groups who are speaking out about the proposed lawless Special Economic Zones (SEZ) to be created at the government’s whim where no rules or laws will apply and fully repeal Ontario’s Endangered Species Act (ESA) that was once heralded as world-leading and replace it with far weaker regulations allowing development to destroy endangered species, habitat, and restoration efforts anywhere in Ontario.

First Nations are expressing serious concerns about their rights being bypassed and ignored by the provincial government.  There are also far-reaching implications to overriding heritage and archeological laws, even limiting future clean energy by placing restrictions on sourcing essential components such as solar panels and control modules that could effectively ban new solar and wind energy in Ontario.

Unprecedented numbers of groups and organizations across the province are coming together to fight this outrageous “King Henry the 8th” bill that overrides so many laws and personal rights to prioritize private company profits and give “Trusted Proponents” carte blanche to do and destroy whatever they want with no recourse.  This is not in the best public interest to see so much power given to so few with no oversight or rules.

Once again, it all comes down to dollars and development by well-connected private corporations and billionaires being prioritized over good planning, democracy, citizen rights, our environment, and the greater public good.

Must Read Bill 5 Op-Ed (also attached below):

	The Hamilton Spectator - Not In Our Nature: Bill 5 Betrays Ontario’s Commitments - It Bulldozes Environmental Oversight For The Benefit Of Industry - Not The People:
	https://www.thespec.com/opinion/contributors/not-in-our-nature-bill-5-betrays-ontarios-commitments/article_51c87f80-bbc4-579c-83d5-caa80612a5f9.html

Bill 5 Backgrounders:

	Environmental Defence Bill 5 Backgrounder:
	https://environmentaldefence.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Bill-5-V2-Backgrounder-May-2025.pdf

	The Narwhal - Bill 5: A Guide to Ontario’s 2025 Development And Mining Legislation:
	https://thenarwhal.ca/ontario-bill-5-explained/

	Canadian Environmental Law Association (CELA) Detailed Submission - “All of Bill 5 should be withdrawn…"
	https://cela.ca/cela-comments-on-bill-5-protect-ontario-by-unleashing-our-economy-act-2025/

Press Conference - There was an excellent Queen’s Park Press Conference held on Tuesday by First Nations, community groups, civil rights groups, and environmental organizations:

	Queen’s Park Press Conference - Environmental Defence Statement:
	https://environmentaldefence.ca/2025/05/12/bill-5-is-an-attack-on-civil-liberties-indigenous-rights-environment/
	
Latest Media - Includes excellent articles that highlight First Nations reactions to Bill 5, how the bill will take away your rights and undermine democracy, and threaten rare wildlife: 

	The Record - Doug Ford Is Undermining Democracy While Blaming Donald Trump:
	https://www.therecord.com/politics/political-opinion/doug-ford-is-undermining-democracy-while-blaming-donald-trump/article_50fbe762-ffa2-50f1-ae68-a82d0bc647a5.html

	The Pointer - Fading Away…. Proposed Bill 5 Threatens Ontario Wildlife and Ecosystems:
	https://thepointer.com/article/2025-05-10/proposed-bill-5-threatens-ontario-wildlife-and-ecosystems

	Canada’s National Observer - As One Species Disappears From Ontario, Doug Ford Weakens Protections For The Rest:
	https://www.nationalobserver.com/2025/05/12/opinion/one-species-disappears-ontario-doug-ford-weakens-protections-rest

	The Narwhal - Two Blank Cheques: Are BC And Ontario Copying The Homework?:
	https://thenarwhal.ca/newsletter-ontario-bill-5-bc-bill-15/
	Two provinces have eerily similar plans to give themselves new powers to override environmental rules and push development.

	The Trillium - “It Stinks”: Ford Government’s Dresden Dump Flip-Flop Favour Big PC Donors:
	https://www.thetrillium.ca/news/politics/it-stinks-ford-governments-dresden-dump-flip-flop-favours-big-pc-donors-10638242

	The Trillium - Province Moves To Exempt Ontario Place From Environmental Notifications:
	https://www.thetrillium.ca/news/municipalities-transit-and-infrastructure/province-exempt-ontario-place-from-environmental-notifications-10640275


Speak Up - There are ways you can speak up and send a strong message to the Ford government:

	Green Party One Click Letter:
	https://secure.gpo.ca/wildlife-under-threat?source=C25.E.OWTA

	Environmental Defence - Stop The Bill 5 Power Grab One Click Letter:
	https://act.environmentaldefence.ca/page/170384/action/1

	Wildlands League - Say No To Bill 5:
	https://wildlandsleague.org/stop-bill5/

	Ontario Nature Action Alert:
	https://ontarionature.good.do/bill-5-stop-attacks-on-endangered-species/Email/

	The Wilderness Committee - Bill 5 will destroy endangered species protections - tool to send your comments to the Environmental Registry of Ontario:
	https://www.wildernesscommittee.org/ActForOntarioSpecies

	Water Watchers - Stop Bill 5:
	https://win.newmode.net/waterwatchers/stopbill5

	New - Ecojustice 1 Click Letter:
	https://ecojustice.ca/take-action/tell-doug-ford-ontarios-wildlife-isnt-for-sale/

	New - CELA Guide to Submit Comments:
	https://cela.ca/action-alert-bill-5/

	New - NDP One Click Letter Against Dresden Landfill:
	https://win.newmode.net/ontarionewdemocraticparty/stopthedresdenlandfill

Letter to the Editor Example - Here’s a great example of how you can speak up to local media to have even more impact:

	https://kingsvilletimes.ca/2025/05/say-no-to-bill-5s-dangerous-overreach/

Council Motions - Municipal councils have passed Motions against Bill 5 in Orangeville, Caledon and numerous other Ontario communities.  Get your local Councillors to speak up as well.  A copy of the Orangeville motion that was approved unanimously (along with a request to have Strong Mayor Powers removed from their community) is attached in Appendix B) below.

Rally’s and Protest Events - Actions are being planned across Ontario on May 16th, May 23th, May 28th and more.  Check out the interactive map and join in:

	https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1q1L-4wcwReSOgSefgk5ci5J_35RMEg0&ll=44.30164712234488%2C-79.7828272&z=9

If you are in Guelph, we understand that a rally opposing Bill 5 is being planned for Saturday, May 24th (more details to come).  If you are able to help please reach out to Anne Moore at amoore083 at gmail.com.

Call - Have even more impact by calling the Premier’s Office directly.  Here are details and talking points from the great folks at Ontario Nature:

	https://ontarionature.good.do/bill-5-stop-attacks-on-endangered-species/call/

	Call Premier Ford’s Office (calls are answered 24/7, be prepared to leave a message) - (416) 325-1941

	Or text Premier Ford’s cell phone directly to tell him how wrong Bill 5 is - please be polite, he has been returning calls - (647) 612-3673

Submit Comments To The Environmental Registry of Ontario - There are several ERO postings that we have until 11:59pm on May 17th to comment on:

	Special Economic Zones Act, 2025:
	https://ero.ontario.ca/notice/025-0391

	Specific to Ontario Place and amendments to the Rebuilding Ontario Place Act - specifically removing public notice and public consultation requirements:
	https://ero.ontario.ca/notice/025-0416
	
	Specific to Bill 5 Amendments the Ontario Heritage Act:
	https://ero.ontario.ca/notice/025-0418

	Specific to Electricity, Mining, and Energy Board:
	https://ero.ontario.ca/notice/025-0409

Standing Committee Presentations - there will extremely limited hearings with only 36 delegations permitted at Queen’s Park to the Committee of The Interior on Bill 5, Protect Ontario By Unleashing Our Economy on:

	Thursday, May 22nd from 10am to 12pm and 1pm to 5pm - Please consider attending in-person in the Legislature and show concern firsthand to cabinet and MPPs.
	Monday, May 26th from 9am to 10:15am and 1pm to 6pm

Please participate in these hearings by submitting comments:  Learn more and submit comments at:

	https://www.ola.org/en/get-involved/participate-committees

Required Action - Speak up against this horrifying omnibus bill and ensure our democracy, environment, clean energy, agriculture, and communities aren’t destroyed by the misguided development efforts of the provincial government under the guise of responding to Trump tariffs. 


2) Region Of Waterloo Continues To Waste Taxpayer Money On Wilmot Mega-Industrial Land Assembly - Regional Chair Karen Redman announced they have reached agreements to study more farmland in Wilmot as part of the confounding plan to destroy 770 acres of prime farmland to create a mega-industrial site.  However, the Region has questionable timing as Honda had just announced the day before that they are pausing their $15 billion EV investment in Ontario.

We have also seen Northvolt go bankrupt with hundreds of millions of dollars of losses on their Quebec plant construction and CAMI EV Trucks in nearby Ingersoll announce shutdowns and layoffs as tariffs and the future uncertainty is causing manufacturers to question any investment in Canada.

Area landowners remain resolute in their commitment to preserve farmland and groups across the region are speaking up to show that our communities are more unwilling than ever.   Council delegations, community events, online communications, a legal challenge, investigations, and protests will continue with increased vigour as the additional threats to Wilmot from Bill 5 and Bill 17 become apparent.

Attached below in Appendix C) is the Regional Press Release with responses/corrections to every misleading and incorrect sentence as well as the Fight For Farmland Press Release to local media countering the Region’s claims.

Here’s the latest media coverage:

	CityNews - Honda Canada Postpones $15 Billion EV Project In Ontario:
	https://kitchener.citynews.ca/2025/05/13/honda-canada-electric-vehicles-ontario-tariffs/?

	The Record - Honda Canada Postpones $15 Billion EV Investment In Ontario:
	https://www.therecord.com/business/honda-canada-postpones-15-billion-ev-investment-project-in-ontario/article_8dcc0b10-9c41-5372-9a95-fd73ac03af96.html

	The Hamilton Spectator - Honda’s Plans To Delay Electric Vehicle Factories A Blow To The Community:
	https://www.thespec.com/politics/provincial/hondas-plans-to-delay-electric-vehicle-factories-a-blow-to-the-community/article_323ee252-8ea9-5b2d-87db-e458aafb0273.html

	CTV - Joly Says Honda Still Committed To EV Investments After $15-billion Project Delayed:
	https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/article/joly-says-honda-still-committed-to-ev-investments-after-15-billion-project-delayed/?taid=68253caa9339350001410ff8

	City News - Over 70 Percent Of Wilmot Land Assembly Purchased By Region:
	https://kitchener.citynews.ca/2025/05/14/over-70-per-cent-of-wilmot-land-assembly-purchased-by-region/

	The Record - Waterloo Region Says It Now Controls 550 Of 770 Acres It Wants In Wilmot Township:
	https://www.therecord.com/news/waterloo-region/waterloo-region-says-it-now-controls-550-of-the-770-acres-it-wants-in-wilmot/article_30d646e6-eb61-5e27-a96e-21927b6c7e87.html

	CBC - 70% Of Wilmot Farmland Purchase For Future Industrial Site, Region Says:
	https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/kitchener-waterloo/waterloo-region-new-update-wilmot-land-plans-1.7534644

	CTV News CKCO - Region Of Waterloo Says 550 Acres Has Been Secured For Wilmot Land Assembly Project:
	https://www.ctvnews.ca/kitchener/article/region-of-waterloo-says-550-acres-have-been-secured-for-wilmot-land-assembly-project/
	
	The Record - Community Groups Say Fight Against Land Assembly Continues In Wilmot Township:
	https://www.therecord.com/news/waterloo-region/community-groups-say-fight-against-land-assembly-continues-in-wilmot-township/article_07a4ceff-7ad6-5945-934d-54f0810c7e18.html

	CityNews - Wrong Plan For Our Community - Local Group Denounces Wilmot Land Assembly:
	https://kitchener.citynews.ca/2025/05/15/wrong-plan-for-our-community-local-group-denounces-wilmot-land-assembly/

	CBC - “Absolutely Astounding”: Wiilmot Group Pushes Back:
	https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/kitchener-waterloo/wilmot-group-pushes-on-against-newly-secured-land-1.7536125

Action Required - Visit the WilmotCAN.com <http://wilmotcan.com/> website to learn more about and support the ongoing efforts, including legal action, research, mapping, and organizing community events: https://wilmotcan.com/  and demand the Region of Waterloo give up its farm destroying mega-industrial fiasco that is already costing taxpayers dearly.  It’s more important than ever to keep up the Fight For Farmland signs and voice your concerns to elected officials.


3) Region Of Waterloo Receives National Recognition! - Kudos to the Canadian Association of Journalists with a Dishonourable Mention for the Code of Silence Award for Government Secrecy.  The Region was recognized for keeping the public and journalists in the dark about the controversial Wilmot mega-industrial project along with first place winner the  Vancouver Coastal Health Authority.

It’s quite the achievement for the Region of Waterloo to be so consistently secretive that a national journalism association recognizes it with an award.  In particular, the award recognized the repeated denial of community Freedom of Information requests, the lack of transparency, and lack of any elected officials willing to speak to the public for over a year all helped the Region of Waterloo to beat out every other municipality and win this Dishonourable Mention.

It is certainly a different era than just a few years ago when Waterloo Region used to be recognized for its leadership, outstanding achievements, and world-class planning - not how much it hides from its citizens and journalists.

	Canadian Association Of Journalists (CAJ) - Waterloo Region Receives Dishonourable Mention from CAJ For The Code Of Silence Award For Government Secrecy:
	https://caj.ca/who-do-you-serve-actually-national-transparency-groups-call-out-vancouver-coastal-health-for-restricting-information-during-the-covid-19-pandemic/

And the media reports:

	The Record - Region of Waterloo Gets Dishonourable Mention For Lack Of Transparency:
	https://www.therecord.com/news/waterloo-region/region-of-waterloo-gets-dishonourable-mention-for-lack-of-transparency/article_6d9f76c2-f16e-5c90-ad6e-4a73fb375b5e.html

Action Required - Speak up and demand better government and transparency.  Remember that elections matter and ensure better representation in upcoming elections.


4) Bill 17 Protect Ontario By Building Faster and Smarter Act, 2025 Announced - Last week we shared initial media reports about this authoritarian bill and now that it has been formally announced it is more draconian than expected.  Bill 17 will gut the protections that municipalities can include in their Official Plans, limit the studies they can request for development applications, as well as impose new limits on development charges, prohibit Green Development Standards, expand MMAH powers - enabling new MZO’s that allow provincial laws to be broken, allow risky rural water and wastewater systems, and opens the door to the privatization of water and wastewater utilities.

This bill could have far-reaching impacts in Waterloo Region where so many unique protections, features, and concepts were integral to our Official Plans regionally and throughout our municipalities.  It could also pose a huge threat to the groundwater and water protections we rely on and the elimination of many Green Development Standards could severely impact the Waterloo High Performance Development Standards that have been under development for years and heading for approval later this year.

Here's a good Environmental Defence overview:

	Environmental Defence Press Release - Bill 17 Ignores The Real Barriers To Housing While Scapegoating Green Standards:
	https://environmentaldefence.ca/2025/05/13/bill-17-ignores-the-real-barriers-to-housing-while-scapegoating-green-standards/

Here’s some media reports although unfortunately many reporters were fooled by the provincial government spin doctors, falling for misleading naming and headlines - sometimes completely missing the huge negative impacts of these proposed regulations and development charge changes will have on our communities.

	TVO - John Michael McGrath - Analysis: Does Ontario’s New Housing Bill Meet The Moment?:
	https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-does-ontarios-new-housing-bill-meet-the-moment
	
	Global News - Ontario Tables Latest Housing Bill, Promising Changes With Municipal Support:
	https://globalnews.ca/news/11175629/ontario-housing-bill-rob-flack-tables/

	The Trillium - PC’s Tabling Bill “Pulling Out All The Stops” To Expedite Home, Road, And Transit Construction:
	https://www.thetrillium.ca/news/housing/pcs-tabling-bill-pulling-out-all-the-stops-to-expedite-home-road-and-transit-construction-10646183 <https://www.thetrillium.ca/news/housing/pcs-tabling-bill-pulling-out-all-the-stops-to-expedite-home-road-and-transit-construction-10646183?utm_source=email&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=May%2012,%202025%2009:31%20am&utm_content=mc_tri_wrap>

	The Record - Ontario Tables Bill To Speed Up Home Building As 1.5 Million Target Not On Track:
	https://www.therecord.com/business/ontario-tables-bill-to-speed-up-home-building-as-1-5m-target-not-on-track/article_a669818c-d93e-5fa6-b464-4c9125d2e347.html

	The Public Record - Hamilton’s Chief Planner On Bill 17 - The Latest Conservative Planning Act Changes:
	https://thepublicrecord.ca/2025/05/hamiltons-chief-planner-on-bill-17-the-latest-conservative-planning-act-changes/

	The Record - Province Looks To Slash Development Fees:
	https://www.therecord.com/news/waterloo-region/province-looks-to-slash-development-fees-while-waterloo-region-municipalities-have-millions-in-reserve-funds/article_35c77cee-c205-5b5d-885b-ac0e559a05d4.html

	Stand.earth - Ontario’s Bill 17: “A Giant Gift To Big Developers And Enbridge Gas”:
	https://stand.earth/press-releases/ontario-green-building-legislation-2025/

You can learn more from the Official Announcement documents at:

	The Provincial Press Release: Ontario Getting Homes And Infrastructure Built Faster and Smarter:
	https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1005903/ontario-getting-homes-and-infrastructure-built-faster-and-smarter

	The Technical Briefing Power Point Presentation:
	https://news.ontario.ca/assets/files/20250512/19d2a4c35c57a7991c6ed55c42393cd2.pdf

Speak Up On the Environmental Registry of Ontario by June 26th at:

	ERO Posting - Regulate Complete Application Requirements 
	https://ero.ontario.ca/notice/025-0462

	ERO Posting- Planning Act and City of Toronto Act Changes
	https://ero.ontario.ca/notice/025-0461

Action Required - Speak up to preserve essential Official Plans, environmental protection concepts such as the Countryside Line, and help ensure Development Charges actually cover the costs of new development.  Ensure that municipalities can implement the Green Development Standards and better buildings we need to combat Climate Change.


5) Ontario Foodbelt Announcement - It was fantastic to see Guelph MPP Mike Schreiner and Haldimand-Norfolk MPP  Bobbi Ann Brady introduce a joint bill the “Protect Our Food Act” that would advocate for the creation of an Ontario Foodbelt to better protect farmland.

Sign a one-click letter, download the petition, and learn more about this fantastic initiative at:

	https://gpo.ca/action_campaign/foodbelt/

Here’s some media coverage:

	CBC - 2 MPPs Want To Create Foodbelt To Protect Farmland, Tariff Proof Ontario’s Agricultural Industry:
	https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/kitchener-waterloo/foodbelt-proposed-ontario-green-mpp-schreiner-independent-brady-1.7533930

Action Required - Speak up and encourage other elected officials to join in and support this excellent idea to better protect irreplaceable farmland in Ontario.


6) Provincial Budget 2025 - The Doug Ford government announced their 2025 budget on Thursday revealing their priorities…which includes hundreds of millions of dollars for booze, and the ability to be called Honourable after they leave office.  Doug Ford appears to be attempting to ‘out-Trump’ Trump with the firehose of undemocratic changes and new proposed legislation.  The budget has been poorly received with many concerns raised:

	CBC - Ontario Tables Massive Deficit In 2025 Budge Amid Trump’s Tariffs:
	https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-budget-deficit-1.7536110

	The Record - Doug Ford’s Bad News Budget Reveals Why He Called An Early Election:
	https://www.therecord.com/politics/provincial/doug-fords-bad-news-budget-reveals-why-he-called-an-early-election/article_cf581eb4-e918-5d42-b961-b83154e9cf4b.html

	Canada’s National Observer - Ontario Budget 2025: Experts And Opposition Say It Falls Short Where It Matters Most:
	https://www.nationalobserver.com/2025/05/15/news/ontario-budget-2025-experts-opposition-say-it-falls-short-where-it-matters-most


7) Yet Another New Provincial Scandal - One of Premier Doug Ford’s closest aides has been sanctioned by the Legislature ethics watchdog for breaking Ontario lobbying rules.  Described by Doug Ford as “like family”, Amin Massoudi was on the infamous Las Vegas trip with Greenbelt developers that cost former Minister Kaleed Rasheed this job.

He also received a slap on the wrist from the Integrity Commissioner Cathryn Motherwell as well:

	The Toronto Star - Former Aide To Doug Ford Sanctioned For Breaking Ontario Lobbying Rules:
	https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/former-aide-to-doug-ford-sanctioned-for-breaking-ontario-lobbying-rules/article_38477efc-ae30-4cdf-94b9-3338e7a5426f.html

And Liberals have asked for an investigation into concerning donations to the Conservatives from developers linked to Bill 5 and the unique Dresden Landfill approvals.

	Canada’s National Observer - Liberals Suspect Special Treatment For Landfill Developers Donating to Ford’s Party:
	https://www.nationalobserver.com/2025/05/12/news/liberals-suspect-special-treatment-landfill-developers-donating-fords-party


8) Region of Waterloo Long-Term Waste Management Strategy Update - The Region of Waterloo has announced an update to the waste management strategy with public consultations underway online including a survey and webinars about proposed changes.

This is an important opportunity for us to speak up about the need for more recycling and waste diversion, sustainability, recycling, and future waste collection.  Learn more at:

	Engage Waterloo Long-Term Waste Management Strategy:
	https://www.engagewr.ca/LTWMS


9) Organizing Between Elections - The Social Development Centre in Kitchener is hosting a meeting on Building Community Power and learning how to organize beyond election cycles to build a powerful community.  This sounds like an excellent event.  Details are as follows:

	Date:  Tuesday, May 20th from 7pm to 9pm
	Location:  Kitchener Civic Hub, 23 Water Street North, Kitchener

Learn more and register at: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/organizing-beyond-election-cycles-a-forum-on-building-community-power-pt2-tickets-1365009733859?


10) Recent Articles - Includes large new St. Jacobs developments, Ontario going backwards on energy, massive battery storage, and efficient homes pioneered in Canada:

	The Record - 1,300 More People Coming To Developments In St. Jacobs:
	https://www.therecord.com/news/waterloo-region/triple-stacked-townhomes-long-term-care-home-proposed-for-hawkesville-road-in-st-jacobs/article_20b0ef6d-213b-57a9-8baa-4b5d8235b047.html

	Energy Mix - Ontario Grid Sees Highest Share Of Emitting Power Since Coal Era:
	https://www.theenergymix.com/ontario-grid-sees-highest-share-of-emitting-power-since-coal-era/

	Corporate Knights - Canada’s Largest Battery Storage Farm Just Opened And It’s Indigenous-led: 
	https://www.corporateknights.com/energy/canadas-largest-battery-storage-farm-opened-indigenous-led/

	Canada’s National Observer - Build, Baby, Build:
	https://us13.campaign-archive.com/?e=f8526537bb&u=8a5c2f8a9bec5f4fc7aae8406&id=b52ca22939
	Efficient homes pioneered in Canada:

	The Record - Heritage Designation Could Delay LRT:
	https://www.therecord.com/news/waterloo-region/heritage-designation-on-preston-property-could-cause-headaches-with-lrt-route/article_901f04fd-5ff5-5a2b-82ec-f24bc261e1be.html


11) Reform Gravel Survey - If you live near a gravel pit or quarrly the Reform Gravel Mining Coalition is hoping you will complete their survey at:

	https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/QJPYNKQ


12) Huron Natural Area Meeting - Join the upcoming meeting to learn more about the development of adjoining lands that could threaten this spectacular natural area in the City of Kitchener.  Details are as follows:

	Date: Saturday, May 24th, 7:00pm
	Location: Country Hills Community Centre, Room #1, 100 Rittenhouse Road, Kitchener, Ontario

Learn more at: https://www.change.org/p/stop-the-industrial-park-development-surrounding-the-huron-natural-area-in-kitchener/u/33503185

Action Required - Attend the meeting and urge Kitchener officials to better protect the Huron Natural area.


13) Talking To Elected Officials 101 - The Waterloo Climate Collaborative is hosting workshops on May 22nd and May 27th on how to have conversations with elected officials in ways that are not daunting or confusing.  Learn how to set up a meeting, with who, how to prepare, set goals, what to say and how to follow-up.  Details are as follows:

	Thursday, May 22nd, 7:00pm to 8:30pm - Kitchener Civic Hub - 23 Water Street North, Kitchener - ring bell at right side of doors, in-person only
	Tuesday, May 27th, 7:00pm to 8:30pm - REEP House - 20 Mill Street, Kitchener - virtual and in-person

To register please e-mail wrclimatecollab at gmail.com <mailto:wrclimatecollab at gmail.com>


14) Climate Momentum Circularity Webinar - Learn from VicWest on how to live more sustainably within a circular economy in a hybrid event that has both in-person and online attendance options:

	Date: Tuesday, May 20th at 7pm
	Location:  Stratford City Hall, 1 Wellington Street, Stratford, Ontario

Learn more and register at: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/climate-conversations-circular-economy-tickets-1357135281159?aff=oddtdtcreator


15) One Million Neighbour Update - Local writer Ariel Kroon has completed a short story “Growing Up, Branching Out” imagining a day in the life of Waterloo Region’s millionth citizen.  The story is one possible future for Waterloo Region where people live with abundance, inclusion and resilience.  Read Ariel’s story at:

	https://onemillionneighbours.ca/2025/05/04/growing-up-branching-out-a-day-in-the-life-of-waterloo-regions-millionth-neighbour/

And there will be a free community dinner to reveal the One Million Neighbours report.  Details are as follows:

	Date: Sunday, May 25th from 5pm to 8pm
	Location: Church of St. John The Evangelist, 23 Water Street North, Ktichener
	RSVP at: ckcoopkw at gmail.com <mailto:ckcoopkw at gmail.com>

Action Required - Get involved for the future that you want to see.


16) Region of Waterloo Lobbyist Registry - Following the similar actions of a few other Ontario municipalities, the Region of Waterloo has introduced a Lobbyist Registry.  While aimed more at professionals charging fees for consulting and lobbying, there are facets that will apply to citizens, volunteers, community groups and others simply speaking up for a better future.  We will need to attend upcoming information sessions and learn more to ensure that we are in compliance with these new regulations.

Learn more at:

	https://www.regionofwaterloo.ca/en/regional-government/lobbyistregistry.aspx

The final virtual information session will be held on:

	June 4th at 12pm - https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/virtual-information-session-lobbyist-registry-tickets-1132709307029


17) Additional Articles - Includes the importance of the Great Lakes:

	The Narwhal - Water Determines The Great Lakes Region’s Economic Future:
	https://thenarwhal.ca/great-lakes-blue-economy-water/


18) Reminder - Next Meeting - Join us next Friday, May 23rd at 5:30pm online at the Zoom link below to discuss the latest:

	Topic: Grand River Watershed Bill 23 Bi-Weekly Zoom Meeting
	Time: Every Other Friday at 5:30pm EST

	Join Zoom Meeting
	https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82644695701?pwd=bnRsUGtWSUcrRnFWR21uYVBISG9jZz09

	Meeting ID: 826 4469 5701
	Passcode: 713374


Thanks for all the great efforts so far - please share any questions or ideas.

Cheers,
Kevin Thomason, Mike Marcolongo, and Joan Faux on behalf of all our community groups.

-----------------------------------
A) Upcoming Events - Get out and get involved!  And keep us posted on your events so we can share them: 

Saturday, May 17th at 11:59pm - Deadline to Respond to Bill 5 on ERO - https://ero.ontario.ca/notice/025-0391

Thursday, May 22nd from 7:00pm to 8:30pm - Talking With Elected Officials 101 - Kitchener Civic Hub 23 Water Street North, Kitchener -in-person only - https://wrclimatecollaborative.ca/

Friday, May 23rd - 5:30pm - Next group update meeting on Zoom - https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82644695701?pwd=bnRsUGtWSUcrRnFWR21uYVBISG9jZz09

Sunday, May 25th from 5:00pm to 8:00pm - One Million Neighbours Dinner - Church of St. John The Evangelist, 23 Water Street North, Kitchener - kcoopkw at gmail.com <mailto:ckcoopkw at gmail.com>

Tuesday, May 27th, 7:00pm to 8:30pm - Talking With Elected Officials 101 - REEP House 20 Mill Street, Kitchener - virtual and in-person - https://wrclimatecollaborative.ca/

Tuesday, May 3rd, 6:30pm to 8:30pm - Waterloo Climate Collaborative Meeting - - REEP House 20 Mill Street, Kitchener -  https://wrclimatecollaborative.ca/

Wednesday, June 4th at 12:00pm - Region of Waterloo Lobbyist Regulations Webinar - https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/virtual-information-session-lobbyist-registry-tickets-1132709307029


--------------------------------------
B) Orangeville Council Motion Against Bill 5 - Get your municipality to speak up too: 

Here is the resolution passed by Orangeville Council this week. Municipal resolutions as you know were key to stopping Bill 66. 

	

It was passed unanimously while Council also asked to have Strong Mayor Powers removed too.


-----------------------------------
C) Bill 5 - ED Backgrounder - An excellent overview of Bill 5:

	


 https://environmentaldefence.ca/report/bill-5/



-----------------------------------
D) Bill 5 - Joint Community Group Letter

Have your group sign onto this excellent Community Group Letter - e-mail Sharon Sommerville at sharonsommerville at gmail.com <mailto:sharonsommerville at gmail.com> to register your group:

	




https://wildlandsleague.org/stop-bill5/


--------------------------------------
E) Region Of Waterloo Continues To Waste Taxpayer Money On Wilmot Mega-Industrial Land Assembly 

Regional Press Release - https://www.regionofwaterloo.ca/Modules/News/index.aspx?newsId=5cadb320-9999-430a-ace4-9c77ce9417a2

Our rebuttal to such an inaccurate and concerning public announcement:


	

And the Fight For Farmland Press Release to local media:





--------------------------------------
F) Canadian Association Of Journalists - Code Of Silence Award For Government Secrecy - Region Of Waterloo Dishonourable Mention!




	Canadian Association Of Journalists (CAJ) - Waterloo Region Receives Dishonourable Mention from CAJ For Rhe Code Of Silence Award For Government Secrecy:
	https://caj.ca/who-do-you-serve-actually-national-transparency-groups-call-out-vancouver-coastal-health-for-restricting-information-during-the-covid-19-pandemic/


--------------------------------------
G) Save The Oro Moraine Event - May 20th at 7pm:






--------------------------------------
H) Organizing Beyond Election Cycles - May 20th at 7pm

	

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I) Climate Momentum Present Circularity - May 20th at 7pm





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J) Recent Media






https://www.thespec.com/opinion/editorial-cartoons/doug-ford-goes-on-a-spending-spree/article_5cec30e9-90d4-5fcf-8017-00fe5b4a8b33.html

Mackenzie Bender - Hamilton Spectator


Opinion | Not in our nature: Bill 5 betrays Ontario’s commitments
It bulldozes environmental oversight for the benefit of industry, not the people.
May 10, 2025
2 min read
Save
 <https://www.thespec.com/opinion/contributors/not-in-our-nature-bill-5-betrays-ontarios-commitments/article_51c87f80-bbc4-579c-83d5-caa80612a5f9.html#>

In Hamilton, we often take our green spaces for granted, Mackenzie Bender writes.
Jim Auty photo
By Mackenzie Bender
Mackenzie Bender lives in Hamilton.
If Bill 5 was truly meant to serve Ontarians, it wouldn’t be pushed through right after an election. It wouldn’t be buried while attention is elsewhere. It wouldn’t be fast-tracked to bypass public input, it would invite it.

But it hasn’t.

Bill 5, titled the Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act, is set to pass on May 17. It would repeal Ontario’s Endangered Species Act, removing science-based decision-making, rewriting the definition of “habitat,” and stripping protections from over 200 species. It would also create “Special Economic Zones,” where environmental laws could be bypassed altogether.

In Hamilton, we often take our green spaces for granted: a deer near Cootes Paradise, hawks soaring above the escarpment, the stillness of Spencer Gorge after a long day. These markers of home feel permanent. But they’re not. Even parts of the Greenbelt we fought to protect would be vulnerable.

Beyond the environmental harm, Bill 5 is colonization in real time.

Ontario claims to support reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. Yet this bill directly contradicts those commitments. Both the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) call for free, prior and informed consent, recognition of Indigenous land governance and co-management of natural resources.

Bill 5 ignores every one of these principles. It removes requirements for consultation with Indigenous communities, silencing their rights and voices. This isn’t just a policy shift — it’s a government reclaiming land and power while excluding those who have protected it longest.

Bill 5 isn’t about affordable housing, green energy, or helping everyday Ontarians.

Let’s be honest. Who is this really for?

It’s the same story that keeps repeating itself across the world: it’s about power. About how the rich and well-connected continue to shape the world in their image, while the rest of us live with the consequences.

Premier Doug Ford has pointed to the Ring of Fire, a mineral-rich region in northern Ontario, as essential to building electric vehicles and supporting a green economy. But even there, mining must be done responsibly with full Indigenous consent and protections for fragile ecosystems. Otherwise, what’s the point of building green if we destroy what we’re trying to save?

Does it still count as green if it costs us biodiversity, clean water and Indigenous rights?

If this were truly about responsible development or EV infrastructure, why not create a focused, transparent bill? Why repeal the entire Endangered Species Act and apply sweeping changes across the province?

Because this isn’t about sustainability. It’s about access — access to land, to profit and to unchecked power.

Bill 5 is a disguise.

Packaged as a growth strategy, it bulldozes environmental oversight for the benefit of industry, not the people.

I’m speaking as an average Ontarian. I’m not rich. I rent, I budget and I care. I don’t own an electric car and I can’t afford to shop organic. But I do walk through Hamilton’s conservation areas with my family. I find peace in the forest. And I know that green space isn’t a luxury — It’s a right.

Yes, we need to build cleaner vehicles and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and we still need materials like lithium and nickel to do that.

But not like this.

Not by destroying endangered species protections.

Not by bulldozing through Indigenous lands without consent.

Not by gutting consultation, rewriting environmental definitions and fast-tracking destruction under the name of progress.

We can build a greener future, but we cannot justify environmental harm and colonial policy in the name of it. If the solution to climate change still looks like corporate extraction, silenced voices and broken ecosystems, then it’s not a solution. It’s the same story in a greenwashed cover.

A better future must be built with care, consent and respect.

Start by using your voice: sign petitions, contact your MPP and tell them this isn’t the Ontario you want to live in. Together, our voices have power.

Opinion articles are based on the author’s interpretations and judgments of facts, data and events. More details <https://www.thestar.com/site/static-pages/glossary.html>




---------------------------------------
Martin Regg Cohn, The Toronto Star, May 13, 2025

Opinion | Doug Ford is undermining democracy while blaming Donald Trump
Back in power after campaigning on a slogan to “Protect Ontario” from the U.S. president’s depredations, the premier is going back on his word, Martin Regg Cohn writes.
Updated 14 hrs ago
May 12, 2025
3 min read
Save
 <https://www.therecord.com/politics/political-opinion/doug-ford-is-undermining-democracy-while-blaming-donald-trump/article_50fbe762-ffa2-50f1-ae68-a82d0bc647a5.html#>


Premier Doug Ford speaks at a news conference in Toronto on April 17, 2025.
Arlyn McAdorey/The Canadian Press 
 <https://www.therecord.com/users/profile/Martin%20Regg-Cohn>
By Martin Regg Cohn <https://www.therecord.com/users/profile/Martin%20Regg-Cohn> The Star
Martin Regg Cohn is a Toronto-based columnist focusing on Ontario politics and international affairs for the Star. Follow him on Twitter: @reggcohn <https://twitter.com/reggcohn>.
“Special Economic Zones” are coming to Ontario.

A better description might be: “Zones of Special Superpowers for the Premier.”

In these designated areas, democratic norms will be suspended until further notice.

Doug Ford’s Tories will do away with environmental assessments and other meddlesome manifestations of red tape. They will impose streamlined regulations of their own design, details still to be determined by the Progressive Conservative cabinet meeting in supreme secrecy.

These are not abstractions affecting far-flung locales in the distant future. Ford’s targets may range far and wide, but they are also too close for comfort.

Torontonians take note: Ford’s first designation could be his controversial Highway 401 tunnel.

First Nations take note: The premier seeks unlimited powers to ram through major mining proposals that impinge on Indigenous territories.

The legislation confers authority on the minister of economic development to select “trusted proponents” for “designated projects,” unencumbered by any provincial law or municipal bylaw. Instead of a get out of jail for free card, think of it as a laissez-passer for never ever going to jail in the first place.

The legislation’s full, fulsome title gives the game away: “Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act.”

Back in power after campaigning on a slogan to “Protect Ontario” from Donald Trump’s depredations, Ford is going back on his word — again. Call it bait and switch and suppress.

Under the guise of protecting the province’s economy from the president, the premier will dismantle local democracy. As Ford tells it, existential times call for extraordinary urgency.

“President Trump wants to destroy our economy, take jobs away from Ontarians and Canadians, and we have to get up and fight like we’ve never fought before,” Ford argues.

“We can’t be caught up in red tape and regulations and dilly-dallying around.”

There’s an unintentional tell: Ford equates the exigency of democracy with the dilly-dally of delay.

Consider the contours of Ford’s unprecedented plan: Ontario’s PC government will lay the groundwork to burrow tunnels and blast mines while blowing up the regulatory framework and democratic underpinnings of our legal system.

The inspiration for this innovation?

The People’s Republic of China pioneered similar economic zones that also do away with red tape and lay down the red carpet for capitalist interlopers. It has muddied the waters for past decades, literally and figuratively, and I have seen Ontario’s future.

The Shenzhen Special Economic Zone was the first and most famous. I lived on the doorstep of Shenzhen, across the border in Hong Kong, watched it in action, breathed in the pollution.

The Shenzhen experiment was dreamed up decades ago by Deng Xiaoping, China’s paramount leader back then, just as Ford is today Ontario’s unchallenged leader. Shenzhen would break through the bureaucratic inertia of communist central planning.

In Shenzhen, the local economy thrived while the environment died. Whither Ontario?

Think of this experiment as Ford’s Greenbelt boondoggle 2.0. Where once he cited a housing crisis as justification for the unjustifiable, today he points to America’s tariff war as a pretext to transgress regulations and unleash unrestricted approvals.

To dig in against Trump, he’ll dig his tunnel under the 401 and burrow into Northern Ontario’s Ring of Fire free from any guardrails, rules and red tape. In short, anything and everything:

“Anything that we see (as) economic opportunity: building a tunnel, for example, along the 401, or any major infrastructure project that creates opportunities and economic development,” Ford explained.

“Let’s speed things up. Let’s make sure that pipeline gets done.”

The trouble with such frenzied crusades to cut red tape is that you cut companies loose from oversight. Ultimately, untethered companies are unaccountable companies.

Nothing against mining magnates, but when you are in the business of stripping topsoil and generating tailings in remote areas where the geography and the ecology cry out for good governance, granting carte blanche in the far north is going too far, too fast.

That’s precisely what the premier did on the Greenbelt after the 2022 election — first promising to protect it, only to plunder it at the first opportunity. Now, history is repeating itself and the starting point is destined to be Ford’s fantasy tunnel, stretching 60 kilometres under the 401.

Full speed ahead? Not so fast.

Environmental Defence calls the bill “a direct attack on species at risk,” because the province could strip away protections in the Endangered Species Act while reining in the work of as many as 19 ministries that now oversee projects.

Sol Mamakwa, the Indigenous MPP who represents Kiiwetinoong riding (where the Ring of Fire is located) said Ford’s PC government is counting on the public’s trust after counting people out.

“This bill, to me, is like Ontario First, First Nation last.”

No one would argue against a reduction in duplication and delay. But given the track record of his PC government, this premier does not deserve a blank cheque nor does he merit blind faith.





-----------------------------------
G) Speak Up and Ensure Your Voice is Heard:

Wilmot Township Council

Natasha Salonen, Mayor, Wilmot, natasha.salonen at wilmot.ca <mailto:natasha.salonen at wilmot.ca> or 519-634-8519 x 9351
Stewart Cressman, Councillor Ward 1, Wilmot, stewart.cressman at wilmot.ca <mailto:stewart.cressman at wilmot.ca> or 519-807-1496	
Kris Wilkinson, Councillor Ward 2, Wilmot, kris.wilkinson at wilmot.ca <mailto:kris.wilkinson at wilmot.ca> or 519-807-4173
Harvir Sidhu, Councillor Ward 3, Wilmot, harvir.sidhu at wilmot.ca <mailto:harvir.sidhu at wilmot.ca> or 519-807-2521
Lillianne Dunstall, Councillor Ward 4, Wilmot, lillianne.dunstall at wilmot.ca <mailto:lillianne.dunstall at wilmot.ca> or 519-807-4975
Steven Martin, Councillor Ward 4, Wilmot, steven.martin at wilmot.ca <mailto:steven.martin at wilmot.ca> or 519-807-5214

Region of Waterloo Council

Karen Redman, Regional Chair, kredman at regionofwaterloo.ca <mailto:kredman at regionofwaterloo.ca>
Berry Vrbanovic, Mayor, Kitchener, berryv at kitchener.ca <mailto:berryv at kitchener.ca>
Dorothy McCabe, Mayor, City of Waterloo, dorothy.mccabe at waterloo.ca <mailto:dorothy.mccabe at waterloo.ca>
Jan Liggett, Cambridge Mayor, Cambridge, liggettj at cambridge.ca <mailto:liggettj at cambridge.ca>
Sue Foxton, Mayor, North Dumfries, sfoxton at northdumfries.ca <mailto:sfoxton at northdumfries.ca>
Natasha Salonen, Mayor, Wilmot, natasha.salonen at wilmot.ca <mailto:natasha.salonen at wilmot.ca>
Joe Nowak, Mayor, Wellesley, jnowak at wellesley.ca <mailto:jnowak at wellesley.ca>
Sandy Shantz, Mayor, Woolwich, sshantz at woolwich.ca <mailto:sshantz at woolwich.ca>
Doug Craig, Regional Councillor, Cambridge, dougcraig at regionofwaterloo.ca <mailto:dougcraig at regionofwaterloo.ca>
Pam Wolf, Regional Councillor, Cambridge, pwolf at regionofwaterloo.ca <mailto:pwolf at regionofwaterloo.ca>
Colleen James, Regional Councillor, Kitchener, CJames at regionofwaterloo.ca <mailto:CJames at regionofwaterloo.ca>
Michael Harris, Regional Councillor, Kitchener, MHarris at regionofwaterloo.ca <mailto:MHarris at regionofwaterloo.ca>
Kari Williams, Regional Councillor, Kitchener, KariWilliams at regionofwaterloo.ca <mailto:KariWilliams at regionofwaterloo.ca>
Rob Deutschmann, Regional Councillor, Kitchener, RDeutschmann at regionofwaterloo.ca <mailto:RDeutschmann at regionofwaterloo.ca>
Jim Erb, Regional Councillor, Waterloo, JErb at regionofwaterloo.ca <mailto:JErb at regionofwaterloo.ca>
Chantal Huinink, Regional Councillor, Waterloo, CHuinink at regionofwaterloo.ca <mailto:CHuinink at regionofwaterloo.ca>


County of Brant Contact list:

Mayor David Bailey  david.bailey at brant.ca <mailto:david.bailey at brant.ca>   226-387-2490
Councillor Ward 1 Jennifer Kyle jennifer.kyle at brant.ca <mailto:jennifer.kyle at brant.ca> 519-242-0898
Councillor Ward 1 John MacAlpine john.macalpine at brant.ca <mailto:john.macalpine at brant.ca> 519-757-9359
Councillor Ward 2 Steve Howes steve.howes at brant.ca <mailto:steve.howes at brant.ca> 519-442-4955
Councillor Ward 2 Lukas Oakley lukas.oakley at brant.ca <mailto:lukas.oakley at brant.ca>  226-216-3037
Councillor Ward 3 John Bell john.bell at brant.ca <mailto:john.bell at brant.ca> 519-209-2277
Councillor Ward 3 John Peirce john.peirce at brant.ca <mailto:john.peirce at brant.ca> 519-442-7134
Councillor Ward 4 Robert Chambers robert.chambers at brant.ca <mailto:robert.chambers at brant.ca> 519-449-2633
Councillor Ward 4 David Miller jedamiller at sympatico.ca <mailto:jedamiller at sympatico.ca> 519-449-1240
Councillor Ward 5 Brian Coleman brianatbridgeview at gmail.com <mailto:brianatbridgeview at gmail.com> 519-753-2798
Councillor Ward 5 Christine Garneau christinegarneau at brant.ca <mailto:christinegarneau at brant.ca> 226-802-1217


Province of Ontario

Premier Doug Ford - doug.fordco at pc.ola.org <mailto:doug.fordco at pc.ola.org> or 416-325-1941 - available 24/7 - all calls confidential
	Or cal or text Doug Ford’s Personal Cell Phone - 647-612-3673
Paul Calandra - Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing - paul.calandra at pc.ola.org <mailto:steve.clark at pc.ola.org> or 416-585-7000
Andrea Khanjin - Minster of Environment, Conservation and Parks - andrea.khanjin at pc.ola.org <mailto:andrea.khanjin at pc.ola.org> or 705-722-0575
Vic Fedeli - Minister of Economic Development- vic.fedeli at pc.ola.org <mailto:vic.fedeli at pc.ola.org> or 416-326-8475
Rob Flack - Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness - rob.flack at pc.ola.org <mailto:rob.flack at pc.ola.org> or 416-326-3074
Michael Parsa - Associate Minister of Housing - michael.parsaco at pc.ola.org <mailto:michael.parsaco at pc.ola.org>

Local Conservative MPPs:
Mike Harris Jr - Minister of Red Tape Reduction, MPP Kitchener-Conestoga - mike.harris at pc.ola.org <mailto:mike.harris at pc.ola.org> or 519-669-2090
Brian Riddell - MPP Cambridge - brian.riddell at pc.ola.org <mailto:brian.riddell at pc.ola.org> or 519-650-2770
Jess Dixon - MPP Kitchener South - jess.dixon at pc.ola.org <mailto:jess.dixon at pc.ola.org> or 519-650-9413
Will Bouma - MPP Brantford-Brant - will.bouma at pc.ola.org <mailto:will.bouma at pc.ola.org> or (519) 759-0361
Ted Arnott - MPP Wellington-Halton Hills - ted.arnott at pc.ola.org <mailto:ted.arnott at pc.ola.org> or (519) 787-5247
Ernie Hardeman - MPP Oxford - ernie.hardeman at pc.ola.org <mailto:ernie.hardeman at pc.ola.org> or (519) 537-5222
Matthew Rae - MPP Perth-Wellington - matthew.rae at pc.ola.org <mailto:matthew.rae at pc.ola.org> or (519) 272-0660

Local NDP MPPs:
Catherine Fife - MPP Waterloo - cfife-qp at ndp.on.ca <mailto:cfife-qp at ndp.on.ca> or 519-725-3477

Local Green Party MPPs:
Mike Schreiner - MPP Guelph - mschreiner at ola.or <mailto:mschreiner at ola.org>g or (519) 836-4190
Aislinn Clancy - MPP Kitchener Centre - aclancy-co at ola.org <mailto:aclancy-co at ola.org> or 519-579-5460

Independent MPPs:
Bobbi Ann Brady - MPP Haldimand-Norfolk - babrady-co at ola.org <mailto:babrady-co at ola.org> or (519) 428-0446


Federal Members of Parliament

Local Liberal MPs:
Bryan May - MP Cambridge - bryan.may at parl.gc.ca <mailto:bryan.may at parl.gc.ca> or (519) 624-7440
Tim Louis - MP Kitchener-Conestoga - tim.louis at parl.gc.ca <mailto:tim.louis at parl.gc.ca> or (519) 578-3777
Valerie Bradford - MP Kitchener-South Hespeler - valerie.bradford at parl.gc.ca <mailto:valerie.bradford at parl.gc.ca> or (519) 571-5509
Bardish Chagger - MP Waterloo - bardish.chagger at parl.gc.ca <mailto:bardish.chagger at parl.gc.ca> or (519) 746-1573
Lloyd Longfield - MP Guelph - lloyd.longfield at parl.gc.ca <mailto:lloyd.longfield at parl.gc.ca> or (519) 837-8276

Local Conservative MPs:
Michael Chong - MP Wellington-Halton Hills - michael.chong at parl.gc.ca <mailto:michael.chong at parl.gc.ca> or (519) 843-7344
Larry Brock - MP Brantford-Brant - larry.brock at parl.gc.ca <mailto:larry.brock at parl.gc.ca> or (519) 754-4300
John Nater - MP Perth-Wellington - john.nater at parl.gc.ca <mailto:john.nater at parl.gc.ca> or (519) 273-1400

Local Green Party MPs:
Mike Morrice - MP Kitchener - mike.morrice at parl.gc.ca <mailto:mike.morrice at parl.gc.ca> or (519) 741-2001

-----------------------------------

Kevin Thomason
Vice-Chair, Grand River Environmental Network
www.gren.ca <http://www.gren.ca/>

Phone: (519) 888-0519
Mobile Phone/WhatsApp: (519) 240-1648
Twitter: @kthomason
E-mail: kevinthomason at mac.com <mailto:kevinthomason at mac.com>

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