Dear Editor:
RE: Linton: ‘NIMBY’ attitude a barrier to attainable housing solutions, April 7.
The recent article that forecasts a construction boom of 730 new households per year in our county for the next 30 years, and a recent notice of a complete application as part of this boom, was startling.
I realize that most people do not wish to have changes made to their “backyards” and I am no exception, but I do not understand where the municipality constantly approves the building of an enormous number of new homes in Fergus.
I saw the recent notice for 118 homes to be built in the area surrounding Wellington Road 19 and 3rd Line. I assume this will affect the adjoining open land. I usually watch areas such as this being developed as they will also include infrastructure and outdoor facilities, etc. A relative mini-city to come.
My issue is if land-use were to usurp farmland or greenspace. This is a major issue that should not be ignored. Years ago when I applied for the managed forest program, a presentation showed that in Ontario we are sorely lacking greenspace. As part of this program, I am required to ensure no clearing of my land so that I protect my land for greenspace. Surely any rural area with a “for sale” sign is a sad indication for the environment and for agriculture.
Developers make great profits from massive building projects. The municipality generates high fees and a continued tax base. Yes, the benefits to them are clear, but at what cost to the environment? If we continue to build massive numbers of homes, we drastically reduce all-important agricultural land and greenspaces – the very sustenance of life.
What are the issues that justify massive development projects? I am sure others think this way. We must put essential issues above profit to those in power.
Thank you to all who read this and consider the bottom line.
Carol Turner,
Centre Wellington