Photo: CN Rail
Milton Mayor Gord Krantz has intensified his opposition to the CN Rail Intermodal Hub project, expressing his concerns in a recent interview.
Krantz reflected on the initial land sale agreement with CN, and highlighted the intentional growth of the community surrounding the proposed hub site.
Q: When the deal to sell the land to CN was first signed, did we anticipate the type of residential expansion in the area surrounding it? In other words, did we know there would eventually be a community there?
“We definitely were planning some 30, 40 years out” Krantz said. “We were in the process of [re-zoning], only to find out that back some many years ago CN bought up 1000 acres of land and [want] to put a hub there”
With Milton’s rapid growth and the growing call for such infrastructure, Krantz remains firm in his opposition. He acknowledged the arguments for the project but stressed that the health and well-being of residents should take precedence.
Q: Milton is one of the fastest-growing communities and continues to grow. What would you say to people that believe we need this type of infrastructure?
“There’s no question we need that type of infrastructure,” Krantz asserted, “but it’s the wrong place at the wrong time.”
In addition to the timing and location issues, Krantz says the town also stands to lose future revenue.
“Future development in that area…Would probably mean anywhere in the area of $40-$50 million dollars a year in property tax [revenue]”
As the community forms its opinions, Krantz urges Miltonians to consider the broader implications of the hub on their quality of life.
The potential health impacts, air quality concerns, and overall community well-being are at the forefront of his message.
Q: As Miltonians form their opinions on this matter, what is the most important thing you feel they should consider?:
“The main reason for opposition isn’t NIMBYism” Krantz said, “but the [potential] health issues revolving around this [project]”
Mayor Krantz’s strong stance and his call for reconsideration signal a critical juncture in the ongoing debate over the CN Intermodal Hub.
Q: You wrote a letter urging the chamber to reconsider their support of the CN Rail Intermodal Hub. What significance does the chamber’s stance have on this development?
“To be united in opposition [of the CN Intermodal Hub project] is very important,” Krantz explained. “I’d prefer them to be on board with us [The municipalities of Oakville, Burlington, Milton and Halton Hills]”
As the debate continues, the mayor’s firm stance against the hub emphasizes the critical need for careful evaluation of how such large-scale developments impact Milton’s residents and environment.
