Reader responds to MP’s request on priorities

Our Readers Write

My number one priority is better quality of life living in Bolton. 

There are costs to irresponsible endless warehouse development and container yards in the area of Bolton, The current trend is the expansion of massive warehouses, logistics centers, container yards and truck parking lots in and around the Bolton village. No thanks to the past and present Mayors and Council. No thanks to York Region and Brampton Council who continue to dump their warehouse developments, and trailer parking lots, right on Bolton's borders. 

The majority of the Town Mayors and Council refused to listen and take action against this development or to the concerns of residents in the immediate area.

With these projects come the subsequent increase in truck traffic, diesel fumes, infrastructure damage. Also increased crime from stolen goods in cargo containers.

Warehouses and logistics centers have severe consequences for the health of the surrounding communities and the environment, and very few benefits.

While developers are offered tax breaks, tax payers end up covering the cost of damaged infrastructure and the increased needs for municipal services. What's more is that communities that already experience the impacts of pollution and a lack of green space are exposed to increased diesel fumes from heavy truck traffic.

Local government officials have to realize that land use laws and zoning codes need to change to put an end to this expansion.

The Municipal Planning Code was established to protect the health, safety, and character of communities. Every municipality must allow for every “use,” but first and foremost housing development.

When we allow for this unchecked development of warehouses, container yards and truck parking lots, we are choosing corporate profits and convenient consumption over healthy communities and a healthy environment. 

Joseph DiFederico

Bolton