Over 70 residents convened at Wilmot Mennonite Church on Thursday morning, expressing apprehensions to local provincial and federal politicians regarding plans for farmland expropriation. Among the attendees were notable figures such as Guelph MPP and Ontario Green Party leader Mike Schreiner, Kitchener Centre MPP Aislinn Clancy, Waterloo MPP Catherine Fife, and Kitchener Conestoga MP Tim Louis.
This gathering followed attempts by Canacre Ltd., a consulting firm representing the region, to purchase lands from multiple farms spanning Wilmot Centre to Nafziger Road. Reports suggest that the farms faced threats of expropriation if they did not accept the offers by the deadline of March 20, which has since passed. Earlier in January, a developer also approached these farms with an offer of $58,000 per acre.
Alfred Lowrick, representing the affected farmers, expressed concerns that the expropriation could impact at least six houses, potentially leading to their demolition. He highlighted the challenges faced by residents in finding alternative homes if such actions were taken.
Various groups, including the Ontario Chapter of the National Farmers Union and the Waterloo and Ontario Federations of Agriculture, have advocated for pausing any projects related to these lands. Ontario Senator Robert Black underscored the potential threat to farmers’ livelihoods and food security, urging authorities to reconsider the expropriation plans.
MP Tim Louis, emphasizing the gravity of the situation, noted that food security is a paramount concern for everyone. He reiterated his role as a listener and learner, pledging to convey the community’s concerns to the federal level.
Waterloo MPP Catherine Fife raised questions about the sudden availability of funds for expropriation, calling for an investigation into the source of these funds and how developers were aware of the land’s future redevelopment back in January.
Despite ongoing discussions and activism, no formal expropriation notices have been issued to the affected farmers yet.
In response to the community’s concerns, Regional Chair Karen Redman highlighted the region’s commitment to balancing economic opportunities with environmental conservation. She emphasized the need for “shovel-ready land” to attract investments and create jobs while ensuring protection for vital agricultural lands and water sources.
Kitchener Conestoga MPP Mike Harris acknowledged the community’s concerns and expressed readiness to engage with stakeholders and government bodies to address these issues effectively.
