Hamilton, Ontario residents who own property in the local Greenbelt are sharing their perspective after a contentious public meeting regarding an Ontario housing plan that proposes the removal of green space. At a planning committee meeting, a group countered claims that they were adequately consulted seven years ago when Hamilton councillors recommended placing the Book Road lands into the protected zone. The Book Road Landowners Group released a statement expressing support for the Ford government’s intention to remove approximately 795 hectares of protected area in Hamilton, arguing that these lands could provide much-needed housing without cost to the taxpayer. The group has consistently argued that there was no “technical process” or “due process” when considering the lands for inclusion in the Greenbelt. They claim that 120 landowners had their property “frozen” and were severely impacted by declining property values and restrictions on land use.

Fred Bristol, who has owned a Garner Road property in the Greenbelt since the 1930s, spoke at the meeting, highlighting that there are two sides to the story. He acknowledged that the majority of people oppose leaving the Greenbelt, but argued that property owners should also have a say in the matter, especially considering their ability to sell their properties. Another resident, Kathy Roberts, expressed surprise at the criticism she and others have faced for opposing the 2016 decision. She emphasized that while others purchased houses built on farmland and claim to protect it, those who have owned and cared for farmland for over 50 years are unjustly condemned.

During the committee meeting, over 30 delegates presented their views to Hamilton councillors and Mayor Andrea Horwath. Attendees, both in-person and virtual, urged councillors to fight against the removal of land from the Greenbelt, citing concerns about environmental sensitivity, potential loss of species, food insecurity, and negative effects on stormwater management. Ward 15 Coun. Ted McMeekin, who was involved in the 10-year Greenbelt review, supported the decisions made and emphasized the due diligence undertaken by his office after the Book Road lands were included in the Greenbelt. He noted that several consultations took place, including one with the City of Hamilton and an opportunity for developers to express their concerns. McMeekin also pointed out that the environmentally sensitive areas, airport control lands, and prime agricultural land in the Book Road area had been identified in a Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs report.

Ward 12 Coun. Craig Cassar attempted to revoke a July decision to engage with a provincial land facilitator during the meeting. However, the motion was ruled out of order by a city clerk since it had already been approved by council and could only be reviewed at the same setting. Cassar plans to present the motion again at a future full council meeting, requiring the support of two-thirds of council members to pass.