Dufferin County advocates for keeping precious farmland

County advocating for more affordable housing while at the same time keeping precious farmland

At the 2023 Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) Conference, Dufferin County took a strong stand. Members and staff met with government leaders to discuss the county's key challenges and hopes.

One major concern is balancing new houses with keeping precious farmland. With 45% of Dufferin's land being top-quality for farming, and generating almost $184 million in 2021, it's a crucial issue. The County is seeing more land turned into homes, which challenges where farming can happen.

Dufferin’s proposals are more discussions about creating rural plots, limiting the splitting of farmland, and allowing more housing units on current plots and farms.

Another significant topic was climate change. Nearly half of Dufferin’s greenhouse gases come from cars and trucks. Changing to electric vehicles could be a game-changer. Dufferin already has a network of charging stations. Their suggestion is new houses should be electric vehicle-ready, making it easier for everyone to go green.

Warden Wade Mills reiterated the county's commitment to protecting its natural environment while also promoting economic growth. He said that Dufferin County wants to grow, but in a way that is mindful of its environmental impact and benefits all residents.