Protecting the City of Toronto against potential impacts of the Government of Ontario’s Bill 66 - by Councillor Mike Layton, seconded by Councillor Ana Bailão

Schedule 5 repeals the Toxics Reduction Act, 2009, and associated regulations that require Ontario companies to publicly report on their use and release of toxic substances and develop feasible reduction plans. Taking away the responsibility to inform the public and reduce harmful chemicals found in our workplaces, consumer products and local communities puts human health and the environment at risk. Schedule 9 amends the Labour Relations Act, 1995, to deem municipalities and certain local boards, school boards, hospitals, colleges, universities and public bodies to be non-construction employers. That would mean that any collective agreement binding the employer and the trade union ceases to apply in so far as it applies to the construction industry. This would mean not only a lowering of quality of jobs in the City, but there could be potential risks to the public if unqualified and untrained workers were to be responsible for projects related to construction and other infrastructure projects in the City. Schedule 10 of the proposed legislation would amend the Planning Act to allow municipalities to pass by-laws without public notice that could override important drinking water, agricultural and environmental protections contained in the Clean Water Act, 2006, Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Act, 2001, the Greenbelt Act, 2005, the Places to Grow Act, 2005, and other provincial legislation. The Greenbelt is an integral component of land use planning that complements the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe to encourage smart regional planning and sustainable communities, reduce urban sprawl, and protect natural and hydrological features and agricultural lands. Furthermore, protections like those included in the Clean Water Act are critical to the health of residents of Toronto.

6. City Council direct the City Clerk to distribute City Council's decision in opposition to Schedules 3, 5, 9 and 10 of Bill 66 to the leaders of all parties represented in the Ontario Legislature, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, the Minister of Labour, the Minister of Education, all Greater Golden Horseshoe municipalities, and the Association of Municipalities of Ontario.