Editor’s note: This letter is addressed to the provincial government.
I am writing as a concerned citizen regarding Bill 5, the Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act, 2025, and specifically its implications for the proposed landfill expansion on Irish School Road in Dresden.
While I appreciate the government’s intent to strengthen Ontario’s economy, I must respectfully urge you to reconsider the elimination of environmental assessment requirements for projects of this magnitude. The long-term environmental risks associated with expanding landfill operations in this area cannot be overstated.
The Dresden region is home to sensitive groundwater systems that support not only agricultural activities but also residential water supplies. Without a thorough environmental assessment, there is a significant risk of groundwater contamination – a risk that, once realized, would be nearly impossible to reverse. Such an outcome would devastate the local environment, damage agricultural livelihoods, and endanger the health of the community.
Additionally, the expansion of waste handling operations without proper oversight raises serious air quality concerns. Increased traffic, dust, and emissions associated with expanded landfill activities could directly impact the quality of life and respiratory health of nearby residents, including vulnerable populations like children and seniors.
Beyond the environmental damage, moving forward without a full environmental review undermines the trust between the government and the communities it serves.
Public opposition to the project is growing, and it is important to recognize that proceeding without addressing these legitimate concerns could result in significant political fallout, not just locally but across rural Ontario.
I respectfully ask you to reconsider the application of Bill 5 as it pertains to the Irish School Road project. By restoring the environmental assessment process for this site, you would demonstrate a commitment to responsible governance, environmental stewardship, and community respect – values that are crucial for Ontario’s long-term prosperity.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss these concerns further and to work toward a solution that protects both our economy and our environment.
John Cummings
Chatham-Kent
