Dear EA Modernization…

Dear EA Modernization Project Team,

The City of Windsor appreciates the opportunity to provide feedback on the Province's initiative to modernize the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Process (MCEA), particularly changes proposed under ERO-019-7891. We are fully supportive of the Province’s efforts to enhance and streamline the MCEA process, recognizing its importance in facilitating responsible municipal infrastructure planning and execution.

Our endorsement of the proposed changes aligns with The City of Windsor commitments previously articulated in response to prior MCEA changes under ERO-019-6693. The City reiterates its commitment to adhering to the legislative amendments introduced by Bills 108, 109, More Homes for Everyone Act, 2022 and Bill 23, More Homes Built Faster Act, which detail adjustments to the development process.

Anticipating upcoming transformative economic projects such as the construction of the new Windsor/Essex regional acute care hospital and the NextStar electric vehicle battery plant, the City foresees a surge in housing demand and other growth related investments. We firmly believe that the proposed changes to the Environmental Act will enable us to effectively address and fulfill our city's goals and objectives in light of these developments.

Furthermore, The City of Windsor received a letter from the Municipal Engineers Association (MEA), dated March 12, 2024, expressing their views on the proposed changes. We are pleased to reiterate our full support of the feedback provided by the MEA, including all of their recommendations.

We look forward to continuing our collaboration with the Province and other stakeholders to ensure that these proposed changes result in a more efficient and effective environmental assessment process that serves the best interests of our community.
Sincerely,

Mark Winterton, P.Eng.
Commissioner – Infrastructure Services / City Engineer
City of Windsor