A note from Matt: Why we must stop Bill 5, together
The Ford government’s Bill 5 may sound like economic reform—but don’t be fooled. It gives sweeping new powers to the province to override local decision-making, especially on development and land use.
Under Bill 5, the Ford Government could impose “special economic zones” on our communities—fast-tracking projects without public input, local council approval, or proper environmental review. As we put it at last month’s packed town hall with Mike Schreiner:“ This isn’t red-tape cutting. It’s democracy cutting.”
Communities like Parry Sound–Muskoka deserve better. We need smart, sustainable growth that reflects local values—not developer-driven decisions made in Toronto.
Last month, I hosted a packed town hall in Bracebridge with Mike Schreiner to talk about what’s at stake. We heard the same message loud and clear: people want their voices heard. They want a say in what happens in their communities. And they’re not willing to let Queen’s Park bulldoze over them—literally or figuratively.
We can’t let Bill 5 go unchallenged. Add your voice, talk to your neighbours, and stay engaged. Together, we can protect our communities—and build a future where progress and democracy go hand in hand.
What can you do?
▶️ Watch: Mike Schreiner explains Bill 5
A clear breakdown of what’s at stake and why it matters.
Watch here →📜
Read the Bill for Yourself, The full text of Bill 5, Protecting Ontario by Enabling Economic Growth Act, 2025. Read here →📣
Flood the zone with people power:
– Call, email, and write to your MPP, Graydon Smith
– Encourage local media to cover Bill 5
– Talk to your neighbours — or organize a door-knocking shift with Matt
– Host a “Chat with Matt” about Bill 5
(Reply to this email to invite Matt to your Bill 5 event!)📅
Join GPO’s Training to organize against Bill 5
Learn how to organize in your community and push back effectively. Whether you’re new to campaigning or ready to lead a team, this session will get you equipped and inspired to stand up against Bill 5. Thursday June 26, 6pm – ZOOM Registration👉
Want to learn more about the work Matt and your local greens have been doing in our communities? Click here
Upcoming Events:
🌈 Muskoka Pride Parade & Festival – July 27th, Bracebridge – Seeking volunteers to march, marshal, and attend our info booth at this annual Pride celebration! RSVP
🗓️ October 25th 2025 – Save the date for our Annual General Meeting!
Get involved:
💸 Fundraising Drive – We need your help!
Support Matt’s efforts to hold our government to account and to ensure the people of Parry Sound-Muskoka have a strong, local voice. Donate🙌
Volunteer Opportunities Whether you’ve got 2 hours or 20, we’ve got a role for you—canvassing, making phone calls, social media, advocacy campaigns, event organizing, and so much more. Sign up here.
Greens continue to strive for an equitable, sustainable future at home here in
Parry Sound-Muskoka and across Ontario.
Join the team and make a difference.
Check out our website: www.psmgreenparty.ca Find us on Facebook @ParrySoundMuskokaGPO &
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Working Together to Grow the Green Voice.
Parry Sound Muskoka Green Party of OntarioPresident – Kevin Logie
Financial Officer – Paul Kuebler
Secretary – Lesley Hastie
Volunteer Coordinator – Linda Mathers
Membership Chair – Linda Ann Jewell
Phone Canvass Coordinator – Lenore Ball
Social Media, Communications – Christi Gardner
Members at Large – Garry Thompson, Jan Larsen, Brenda Wainman,
Pat Kuebler, Legh McNabb, Arleigh Luckett