By Susan Layard
The response to our eBlast and social media coverage regarding the potential Minister’s Zoning Order (MZO) on 65 Ward Street has been unprecedented. Many thanks to all ACO Port Hope members who have written letters to our provincial and municipal governments regarding this matter.
The President of ACOntario, Diane Chin, also wrote to Minister Piccini regarding the proposed MZO. She was particularly concerned that it would certainly “undermine any confidence that this government adheres to the rules of the Ontario Heritage Act.”
The ACO hasn’t been a lone voice on this matter. Other Port Hope community members have been mounting a campaign against the proposed MZO, distributing flyers and sending letters to our local and provincial politicians. The issue of fire safety was raised in a letter written by a retired Fire Captain, and long-term-care expert Dr. Patricia Spindel of Seniors for Social Action reiterated her concerns regarding seniors in Port Hope being “warehoused and receiving assembly-line care” in a 7-storey facility.
We need to keep up the momentum to counter this MZO. If you haven’t already done so, please write a letter to our local MPP, David Piccini david.piccini@pc.ola.org, Minister for Long Term Care, Paul Calandra paul.calandra@pc.ola.org, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Steve Clark minister.mah@ontario.ca and Mayor Olena Hankivsky, OHankivisky@porthope.ca.
Many Port Hope residents who are not connected to social media may be unaware of the consequences of this proposal. We suggest that you raise this issue with your friends and neighbours and encourage them to write about their concerns as well.
You may wish to learn more about the proposed decision or review other members’ letters as examples before you write.
Once you have sent your letter and if you are willing to share it with us, please send it to info@acoporthope.ca.
Photo courtesy of The Port Hope Archives.