MLA TAKES OVER FRIENDS OF MUSKOKA. ‘WE’RE STRONGER TOGETHER’
Mark Clairmont | MuskokaTODAY.com
MUSKOKA — A potent new political force has been struck between Muskoka’s oldest lake association and a comparatively fledgling partner.
Call it old money meets the nouveau riche as the Muskoka Lakes Association and the Friends of Muskoka (2017) have merged.
In a just released joint statement yesterday, they say they are “pleased to announce they are joining forces to preserve and enhance Muskoka for all generations to enjoy.”
And that they are “stronger together,” because of it.
In reality it’s a takeover of brand that has fought for lakes health and the environment as increasing access to Muskoka is growing in larger scales with new housing proposals popping up from Muskoka Lakes to Huntsville and Gravenhurst in particular most recently.
And at it heart is a way of life they feel is threatened by growth across Muskoka and specifically around the lakes.
“Under the MLA banner, the group will continue to advocate for responsible development and the protection of Muskoka’s unique environment, engaging in watershed and shoreline protection, development and zoning reviews, Official Plan updates and township budgets and accountability.”
Said MLA President Ken Pearce: “With continued challenges to our environment and water quality, it’s more important than ever to raise our voices in support of Muskoka. We are stronger together.”
Pearce is also secretary of the FOM.
FOM president and co-founder Laurie Thomson added: “Friends of Muskoka has accomplished a great deal over the past seven years, much of it working hand in hand with the MLA. We are excited to be formally joining forces with them to continue to protect what we all love about Muskoka.”
The two groups claim their successful collaborations include opposing residential subdivisions masquerading as resorts, engaging in local elections and supporting policies protecting the environment and water quality, including in the Township of Muskoka Lakes (TML) official plan.
Thomson and Pearce say current concerns include efforts to roll back environmental protections and other gains captured in TML’s OP, as well as the recently-announced proposal for a massive development in Muskoka Bay, which they charge doesn’t comply with numerous planning requirements.
Friends of Muskoka was formed in 2017 to oppose residential subdivisions at commercial densities at waterfront resorts in Muskoka. Claiming more than 4,000 supporters, the group worked to protect and preserve the natural environment and unique character of Muskoka by promoting responsible use and development of its land and lakes.
The Muskoka Lakes Association, too, says it has approximately 2,000 member families representing 11,500 individuals who live, work on or enjoy the Muskoka Lakes.
Founded in 1894, it is North America’s oldest and one of its largest lake associations, with a mission to preserve and enhance Muskoka’s unique environment for all generations.
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