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Orillia’s city council spent recently a considerable amount of time debating urban growth as reported in OrilliaMatters on Dec. 6.
In this debate council members apparently expressed concern over lack of land in the city for future growth and they decided to spent $200,000 on this question (on a land needs analysis).
It is clear from the tone of the discussion that council is still strong on the concept that “growth for the sake of growth is good”. However, I suggest it is time to reconsider this position as growth frequently brings pollution and traffic congestions.
So instead of pushing “growth”, local government should concentrate on upgrading, modernizing and improving the existing municipality. This position does not preclude council's dealing with house shortages or lack of employment opportunities which are frequently regional issues.
Konrad Brenner
Ramara
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