Auditor General’s Special Report on the Greenbelt Changes

Marit Stiles and the Ontario NDP have consistently challenged the Ford Conservatives over their questionable Greenbelt land deals, which favored developers with Conservative ties. The upcoming Auditor General’s report is expected to shed light on these dealings, highlighting the government's potential breach of public trust.

Key Events Leading to the Special Report:

• Ford's Conservatives repeatedly promised not to alter the Greenbelt.
• A 2018 leaked video revealed Ford discussing Greenbelt development with top developers.
• Despite election promises, in November 2022, the government introduced a plan to carve up 7,400 acres of protected Greenbelt land.
• Stiles and the NDP requested an Auditor General investigation into these land removals, emphasizing potential conflicts of interest with developers like Silvio DeGasperis and Michael Rice.
• Stiles filed multiple complaints with the Integrity Commissioner, highlighting potential breaches of the Members’ Integrity Act.
• Evidence emerged suggesting plans for a hospital on Greenbelt land, hinting at prior knowledge of the land's development status.
• Solicitations at the Premier’s daughter’s wedding, attended by benefiting developers, raised further concerns.

The Conservatives' interest in the Greenbelt, seemingly for their developer donors, dates back to 2018. Notable events include:

• Luca Bucci, former chief of staff to Minister Clark, became CEO of the Ontario Home Builders’ Association in 2022 and began lobbying his former ministry, raising conflict of interest concerns.
• Documents suggest Ford was involved in Greenbelt policy discussions as early as June 2022.
• Rice Group CEO Michael Rice's company purchased Greenbelt land described as a "land banking opportunity" in September 2022.

As summer 2023 approached, the Conservative government faced increasing scrutiny:

• The Auditor General summoned key figures like De Gasperis and Rice for information on Greenbelt properties.
• Bucci's abrupt departure from the Ontario Home Builders’ Association coincided with the announcement of the Auditor General's special report.

The trail of questionable dealings and potential conflicts of interest surrounding the Greenbelt has been long and winding. But as the Auditor General's report is set to unveil, Marit Stiles and the Ontario NDP remain steadfast in their commitment to uncovering the truth.

This isn't just about preserving our cherished Greenbelt—it's about ensuring that the very foundations of our government remain transparent, accountable, and free from backroom dealings. Ontarians deserve nothing less, and we will continue to champion this cause, ensuring that every stone is turned and every question answered.