P.O.W.E.R.'s position on the inclusion of the more-than 4,000 acres into the Greenbelt is to provide support, for the following reasons.

P.O.W.E.R. supports the Greenbelt in principle as a long-needed effort to preserve agricultural land and the natural environment and to balance the poor air quality created by large urban areas in southern Ontario . We also applaud both the provincial and Halton Region governments for recognizing that ecosystem function must be preserved, protected and enhanced. The Greenbelt begins to do this. P.O.W.E.R. is concerned about protecting our local food supply and achieving our own food security. We believe that farming is crucial for southern Ontario , and we agree with the provincial government that prime agricultural land must be preserved for food production. We must find ways to value farming enough that it becomes a sustainable way of life. We do not see the function of farmers as being the sellers of farmland upon their retirement.

Yet P.O.W.E.R. sees flaws in the proposed Greenbelt Plan. We find that quarrying and unchecked infrastructure development will be permitted throughout the proposed protected areas, including the most ecologically fragile parts throughout and near the Niagara Escarpment. P.O.W.E.R. finds that the Greenbelt doesn't protect enough land, especially in Halton, which seems to be targeted for widespread, unchecked development. We support the need to halt urban sprawl and maintain distinct towns and communities. For this reason we support the Halton Hills' Council's original motion to request the addition of 4,700 acres in southwest Halton Hills to the Greenbelt . This will provide a needed buffer between the industrial lands of Milton and a rural part of Halton Hills.

Recommend Addition of 4,700 Acres
While the Greenbelt is not perfect, it is an important first step to assuring a sustainable Ontario . P.O.W.E.R. supports the decision of the Region of Halton to include the lands suggested by Halton Hills Council in its submission to the province.

Last Verified: July 2011