Is Josh Matlow the overlord of the provincial Liberals? Probably not—but the Grits did announce an environmental assessment for his controversial quarry
One of the issues that Josh Matlow has been following is decidedly outside of his ward: the proposed quarry in Melancthon (about 100 kilometres north of Toronto) that could become one of the largest in North America. Matlow previously asked the executive committee at city hall, in turn, to ask the province to force an environmental assessment of the proposed “mega-quarry” project, but before the committee could even meet, the Ontario government beat them to the punch.
From the CBC:
“Today’s decision ensures that a transparent and independent assessment of the environmental impacts of Melancthon quarry proposal will be conducted,” said [environment minister John] Wilkinson in a statement.
Highland Companies says the area has one of the largest deposits of high quality limestone in the province.
Wilkinson says he believes a comprehensive and independent assessment of the environmental impacts of Melancthon quarry proposal is required.
Apparently, the mere thought of facing a non-binding motion sponsored by Councillor Matlow was enough to bend the provincial government to Matlow’s all-powerful will! Er, not really. The fact that an election is around the corner—and that the prospect of luring even more environmentalists away from their traditional homes in the Green and NDP parties is mighty enticing to the Liberals—might have something to do with it. But, hey, what’s the harm in giving a local councillor some credit?
• Controversial quarry to get environmental assessment [CBC]
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