OrilliaMatters welcomes letters to the editor ([email protected]). This letter urges city councillors to make a 'good decision' when they meet Monday to discuss a future boundary expansion as part of its municipal comprehensive review planning process.
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Council is voting (on Monday) whether to continue the decades-old sprawl approach to growth or to explore the numerous modern ways to build up and intensify.
We have learned from the past decade that growth led purely by developers does not meet the needs of our people. While the business plan might make sense to investors, it makes little sense for municipalities and their citizens.
Increased density concentrates infrastructure in a manageable way. It allows for walkable and livable neighbourhoods. It provides greater option for mixed-use housing, affordability, and mixed use commercial settings. It preserves green areas around the town for recreation, farming, and carbon-cleansing roles. It helps a town be a livable community for all instead of an exclusive enclave.
Increased density promotes the viability of public transit alternatives instead of requiring more and more highways (as we see taking place).
Increased residential and commercial density allows for living and working within reasonable distance from home. It is essential to work for community well-being seven generations down the road instead of accepting that the only answer is short-term profits.
No question, Orillia will see growth in homes and jobs. But of what sort? Will it be sprawling subdivisions which are only affordable to a few? Will it take away natural aquifer and flood management settings in return for easy short-term gain?
Or will the Council finally take a stand for the average folks in Orillia, vote for Option 2 (in city staff report), and look to the expansion of capacity within?
As has happened in several other municipalities, Council can challenge the provincial planning mantra – a plan designed for the GTA, not for our communities in Simcoe North.
Council, the choice is yours to make. Make a good one for our children’s future.
Dennis Rizzo
Orillia
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