On behalf of the Sarnia Lambton Chamber ofCommerce, we appreciate the opportunity to provide comments on ERO Posting025-1257 regarding proposed changes to the Conservation Authorities Act,including the creation of a new provincial agency and the consolidation ofOntario’s Conservation Authorities.

Our Chamber represents businesses acrossSarnia–Lambton, including builders, developers, manufacturers, agriculturalproducers, and small businesses that rely on efficient, predictable, andlocally informed regulatory processes. We are concerned about the potentialimpacts these proposed changes may have on economic development, investmentcertainty, and service delivery in our region.

Of particular concern is the proposed mergerof the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority (SCRCA) into a Lake ErieRegional Conservation Authority covering more than 23,000 square kilometres and81 municipalities. We believe this scale of consolidation presents significantrisks, including:

·       Reduced local representation and decision-making: Local governance ensures that watershed-specificissues, community priorities, and economic conditions are properly understoodand reflected in decisions.

·       Loss of local expertise and responsiveness: The SCRCA has long-standing knowledge of the St.Clair watershed and local land-use dynamics. This expertise is critical fortimely, informed decision-making and effective collaboration with businessesand municipalities.

·       Increased uncertainty and delays for permits: Builders, developers, and farmers depend on clear,timely permitting processes. Larger, more centralized authorities risk longerapproval timelines, reduced accessibility, and greater uncertainty—potentiallydiscouraging investment and slowing housing, infrastructure, and agriculturalprojects.

The Chamber supports efforts to improveefficiency, consistency, and accountability across Conservation Authorities.However, we urge the province to carefully consider whether large-scaleregional consolidation will achieve these goals without unintended consequencesfor local economies and communities. Maintaining strong local input, expertise,and service standards should be a priority in any reform.

We respectfully request that the Governmentreconsider the proposed consolidation model or, at minimum, ensure robustsafeguards that preserve local decision-making authority, service levels, andtimely permitting processes for businesses and landowners.

Thank you for considering our comments. Wewould welcome further dialogue on how to modernize conservation governancewhile continuing to support economic growth and community development inSarnia–Lambton.

Sincerely,

Carrie McEachran,CEO

Sarnia Lambton Chamber ofCommerce

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