AWARE Simcoe calls for public participation in Official Plan process

MIDHURST – AWARE Simcoe is calling on Simcoe County councillors to hold at least two public forums to engage citizens in the approval process for  the draft Official Plan, which may go to Simcoe County Council for approval in September.

There have been substantial changes since this document was first approved by County Council in 2008. The changes were negotiated confidentially by county and provincial bureaucrats. NONE OF THESE DISCUSSIONS HAVE BEEN IN THE PUBLIC DOMAIN! 

“There is time for a public debate on this very important blueprint that will guide development until 2031,” said Sandy Agnew, chair of the AWARE Simcoe subcommittee on growth.

The document will be the subject of an Ontario Municipal Board hearing that’s not expected to be scheduled until mid-2013.  

“There has been no consultation since 2008,” Agnew said. “Simply posting the draft Official Plan online and allowing two months in the middle of summer for submissions in effect cuts the public out.”

He noted 295 people signed a petition containing key points in the AWARE submission. “That’s an indication people understand how important this.”

Link to letter

Link to petition

Link to AWARE Simoe comment on the draft modified Official Plan