WATERLOO – Marit Stiles, Leader of the Official Opposition NDP is in Wilmot today to call for transparency and accountability for Wilmot farmers left in the dark over orders to sell their land or face expropriation.
“What we’re seeing in Wilmot is extremely concerning,” said Stiles. “Wilmot farmers will be the first ones impacted but are the last to be consulted. The lack of respect is staggering. They deserve answers and we’re here today to make sure they get them. We’re going to get to the bottom of this, just like we did with the Greenbelt”.
A community petition to stop the expropriation already has well over 30,000 signatures.
“These aren’t empty tracks of land,” said MPP Catherine Fife (Waterloo). “We’re talking about people’s homes, livelihoods, and family businesses that have been jeopardized because of this reckless and opaque decision making. Wilmot farmers deserve answers and honesty”.
Marit Stiles will be hosting a town hall in Wilmot on April 19 to hear from community and bring their concerns straight back to the Premier.
Background
- In March, 6 farming properties and 6 residential properties in Wilmot were told that the Region of Waterloo wanted to purchase their land, totaling 770 acres. If the farmers didn’t agree, their land might be expropriated.
- Community backlash has been fierce and united
- Officials are being tight-lipped, but on April 11, Ford admitted that he has directed municipalities to consolidate land, but refused to elaborate