StratfordToday received the following letter from Get Concerned Perth County regarding a new road upgrade in Sebringville for a proposed subdivision.
SEBRINGVILLE - The Ontario government’s surprise announcement of nearly $1.2 million for neighbourhood road upgrades in Sebringville has raised concerns among residents and community advocates. The massive proposed development of over 300 new homes in a small, unserviced hamlet contravenes the province’s own Provincial Planning Statement and highlights broader challenges in the Ford government’s push for new housing development at any cost – including at the expense of community sustainability and environmental stewardship.
“To see the province now announcing road funding for a massive subdivision that hasn’t even been approved, and has been the subject of so much concern and controversy in the community, is extremely troubling,” states Adrienne Tuling, spokesperson for Get Concerned Perth County.
“MPP Matt Rae’s announcement, and Mayor Orr’s suggestion that this development is a foregone conclusion, is an insult to our community and every citizen raising concerns while trying to find more balanced and sustainable approach to meet future development and housing needs.”
“We urge the government to redirect the $1.2 million to facilitate infill development, accessory dwelling units, and local redevelopment efforts that increase housing choice and affordability without paving over irreplaceable farmland with unaffordable and unsustainable urban sprawl. Let's prioritize the creation of a more complete community by providing essential amenities, services and infrastructure while preserving much needed farmland and our historic village designation.”
The proposed high-density, urban-style development would include apartment buildings and townhomes with densities unprecedented anywhere in Perth County, directly contravening the Provincial Planning Statement and the Perth County Official Plan. Sebringville, which lacks municipal servicing, adequate infrastructure, commercial areas, transit, and other critical amenities, is not equipped to support the proposed development – nor may it even be possible given water and sewage constraints that are still the subject of an outstanding and much delayed Environmental Assessment.
“To see the Province funding road improvements before it has even been determined if this massive development is even feasible is absurd,” states Joseph Totaro, a long-time local Sebringville resident. “It’s totally out of context for our community and I can’t believe that MPP Matthew Rae is so out of touch with local constituents that he wouldn’t have been aware of all the concerns raised here by hundreds of citizens and all the media coverage - unless the province is trying to force this awful development on us along with the developer.”
Get Concerned Perth County calls on the Ontario government to reconsider its approach and prioritize development strategies that align with provincial planning principles, respect local needs, and safeguard vital farmland for future generations.
About Get Concerned Perth County
Get Concerned Perth County is a grassroots community organization dedicated to advocating for responsible growth and development that aligns with official plans, respects community values, and preserves vital resources. We strive to ensure transparency, accountability, and public engagement in local decision-making processes.
