A year ago, the rural Ontario town of Clearview started noticing something unusual when Mayor Doug Measures discovered that a local farm had been registered to the Crown shortly after it was put up for sale.
Not long after, he found out during a meeting with federal officials that the township, home to nearly 15,000 residents and located about 40 kilometres west of Barrie, Ont., was selected as a site for Ottawa’s over-the-horizon military radar project.
Just three days following that meeting, Measures mentioned that some farmers and landowners in Clearview received letters from the Department of National Defence asking if they would be open to selling their properties.
This move sparked strong pushback from both residents and their elected leaders.
“I had no idea that this was happening, so it was a complete surprise to all of us,” Measures said, calling it “a very frustrating situation.”
Story continues below
The radar system is expected to cost around $6 billion and aims to monitor airspace stretching from the Canada-United States border up to the Arctic for incoming missiles. This initiative is part of Canada’s pledge to invest $38.6 billion over twenty years into enhancing North American Aerospace Defence Command capabilities and is being developed in partnership with Australia, which has established a similar early warning radar network.
Alongside the receiving site in Clearview, DND has also designated Kawartha Lakes, situated northwest of Peterborough, as a location for a transmitting station. The installations will feature large antennas that could reach heights of 45 meters along with necessary supporting infrastructure.
The uncertainty has left many residents’ lives feeling unsettled according to Measures.
His stance supports national security but opposes utilizing “some of the best agricultural lands in central Ontario” for such purposes.
“We have two competing issues right now. It’s national security or food security,” he remarked while noting townspeople prioritize food security at present.
DND reported conducting public consultations online last year which gathered over 400 responses along with hosting two public engagement events last September.
Measures pointed out numerous questions arose during those sessions but only limited answers were given back. He wonders why Canadian Forces Base Borden-located half an hour south-couldn’t serve as housing for this receiving station instead; suggesting other Crown-owned lands situated further north should also be considered options too,.
The Department of National Defence clarified choosing locations for its radar initiative involves “complex and inflexible requirements” which include factors like latitude preferences , land area sizes , environmental limits , suitable distances from radio interference sources , alongside proximity towards electrical power supplies. In response forwarded by DND correspondences toward acknowledged acquisition activities taken thus far included securing grounds meant explicitly designated beforehand concerning initial reception areas located at Clearview & transmission zones established within Kawartha Lakes – where strict adherence toward environmental stipulations remains enforced throughout respective projects’. Though inquiries made regarding potential purchases pertaining additional four thousand acres within outlined vicinity remain unaddressed outright by authorities involved presently engaged studying possibilities involving further southern Ontarian sites assured clear message conveyed stating ‘currently working options do not include land expropriations’.
Tensions Run High Among Locals
More on Canada More videos Terri Jackman resides in a farmhouse directly across from the proposed site in Clearview. She noted that three representatives from the Department of National Defence visited her property after she received an inquiry letter. She recalls being informed that trees surrounding her home would be removed and there would be nighttime lighting along with security cameras directed away from the site towards neighboring properties. “So, my house would probably be under surveillance with the security cameras because I’m just across the road from it,” she stated. “I was quite shocked of course. I was angry; I was upset; I was very concerned about what I was hearing.” Jackman moved into her home back in 1988 with her husband who passed away several years ago. Story continues below “We built a lot of memories there … I was planning on living there until I could no longer take care of it myself,” she shared.Get breaking National news
If you want updates affecting Canada and beyond, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered right to you when they happen. The Department of National Defence mentioned it has been maintaining “regular contact” with local communities, Indigenous rightsholders, municipalities, and provincial officials regarding this project while sharing information as it becomes available. This communication hasn’t reduced tensions or addressed various concerns among locals according to reports. The radar project is poised to alter the economic landscape of the town significantly; if executed as planned, substantial portions of valuable agricultural land could vanish permanently. Certain residents worry about safety living near a radar receiving station while others express environmental concerns since the proposed area is close to Minesing Wetlands-a conservation zone known for its ecological importance. An even bigger issue lies with those who received letters from DND but chose not to sell their properties-they’re anxious about potential displacement or expropriation despite assurances from DND stating they have no current plans for expropriation.Crisis Leaves Residents Uncertain
The mayor stated that DND has already purchased an entire parcel including three properties-a farm plus two adjacent homes-totaling around 750 acres. He indicated that although discussions suggest possible acquisition of another 4,000 acres may occur in future phases there’s been no clarity regarding when or how this might transpire.The uncertainty has left many residents’ lives feeling unsettled according to Measures.
His stance supports national security but opposes utilizing “some of the best agricultural lands in central Ontario” for such purposes.
“We have two competing issues right now. It’s national security or food security,” he remarked while noting townspeople prioritize food security at present.
DND reported conducting public consultations online last year which gathered over 400 responses along with hosting two public engagement events last September.
Measures pointed out numerous questions arose during those sessions but only limited answers were given back. He wonders why Canadian Forces Base Borden-located half an hour south-couldn’t serve as housing for this receiving station instead; suggesting other Crown-owned lands situated further north should also be considered options too,.
Trending Now
The Department of National Defence clarified choosing locations for its radar initiative involves “complex and inflexible requirements” which include factors like latitude preferences , land area sizes , environmental limits , suitable distances from radio interference sources , alongside proximity towards electrical power supplies. In response forwarded by DND correspondences toward acknowledged acquisition activities taken thus far included securing grounds meant explicitly designated beforehand concerning initial reception areas located at Clearview & transmission zones established within Kawartha Lakes – where strict adherence toward environmental stipulations remains enforced throughout respective projects’. Though inquiries made regarding potential purchases pertaining additional four thousand acres within outlined vicinity remain unaddressed outright by authorities involved presently engaged studying possibilities involving further southern Ontarian sites assured clear message conveyed stating ‘currently working options do not include land expropriations’.
‘We’re not backing down,’ say concerned locals
nttt nttn Work commencing related developments upon both areas situated around clear views kawartha lakes forecasted begin imminently throughout this calendar year onward accordingly followed expectations establishing basic functionalities anticipated concluded successfully before finalizing within upcoming time span wrapping up concluding months leading into end-of-year timeline projected towards achieving installation readiness effective concluding stages observed prior December twenty-nine possibly serving operational capacities fully active thereafter.n Jackman however emphasizes cautiously optimistic sentiments believing continued efforts might persuade federal entities rethink earlier decisions implemented asserting grassroots petitions initiated containing upwards beyond two thousand gathered signatures urging cessation against ongoing constructions upon purchased spaces designated locally seen henceforth expressing concerns echoed reciprocally extended via community members discussing anxieties felt collectively voiced consistently alongside supportive actions undertaken demonstrating unity resonating stronger than ever before pertaining wider implications surrounding futures witnessed evidently come forth regardless daunting odds presented threatening impending changes unfolding around them amidst rising tides overshadowing cherished homes rooted deeply intertwined fabric lives lived harmoniously amongst farms cultivated through generations past standing strong facing adversity head-on.-n Jacob’s voice resonates echoingly powering amplifying narrative unified emphasizing significance collectively coming together rally fighting fiercely championing behalf trying protect interests preserve core values attached intrinsic bond identity whilst navigating uncertain waters reflecting journey committed pursuing justice rectitude path laid steps bringing greater awareness resilience anchored prevailing spirit hold prevail ultimately reminding everyone there isn’t just stakes higher things rather larger picture always better outcomes arise through solidarity persistence unwavering determination create lasting impressions felt nurturing bonds bridging understanding cultivate compassion driven purpose forge pathways sustainable cohabitation amid shifting landscapes everywhere found resonated strongly departed yet lingered heavily transforming hearts minds shaping tomorrow yet await gathering hope brings light anew shining forth. Yet still shadows loom forebodingly continuing cast doubts existing status quo demanding attention considering ramifications caused upheavals encountered each daily life disruptively altering deeply entrenched histories passed down generations grappling enormities facing ahead despite overwhelming odds stacked against striving never yielding fortified moral compass guiding brightly illuminating pathways forward promising brighter horizons achievable collaboratively supported tirelessly aligned motives fostering cooperative endeavors envisioned manifest realities gradually shifting collective narratives breathed existence richness treasured legacies undying yearning forging ahead hopeful embracing possibility awaiting realization dreams aspired become tangible meaningful connections woven intricately intertwining every thread bringing warmth comfort familiarity essence vibrancy seeps distinctly encompassing diverse experiences vibrant tapestry uniquely defines identities enhanced realizing potentials thrives abundant countless opportunities emerge flourishing inspiring moments experienced shared journeys embarked lifting spirits transcendent nature humanity bound inexorably inseparable entwined destinies threading together weaving stories untold awaiting revelation beauty promise endless unfolds continually shapes vivid arcs weaving life’s rich tapestry enriched memories written heartbeats harmoniously dancing rhythmically intertwining creating harmony deepening understanding enriching bonds uplift journey endured traversing complexities navigating challenges conquered facilitating growth transformation reaching milestones profound worth celebrating victories big small alike fosters nourishes expressions love compassion empathy connecting everyone beautifully demonstrating united strength remarkable resilience embody innate capacity rise above tribulations uncover hidden potentials crafted through resolute commitment pursuing aspirations leads endeavor preserving unyielding belief inherent value uplifting voices echo loudly inspiring collective movement forward dare dream boldly strive achievement ensuring brighter future awaits united front showcasing true essence humanity alive thriving amidst adversities faced bringing communities families together forging lasting connections never forget bring together inspiring paths illuminated.. But today we keep pushing forward holding steadfast resolve reminds how powerful people truly become pooled resources talents contributing positively shaping environments foster goodness spread kindness generate hope renewal rekindling spirits igniting flames strength courage reignite passions pursue progress uplift one another let shine brilliance illuminate way expand horizons explore boundless possibilities evoke transformations elevate consciousness acknowledge interconnectedness weave intricate tapestries make differences ripple across lives empowering change destined fulfill beautiful destinations awaited embracing unfolding tales filled wonder welcome journeys ahead embracing unknowns discovering treasures within reflections lead unfold new beginnings flourish. ___ عازم زسلاينل اجزارذد اقببلت ضلضع وانظؤ انحوالنور ععانق داهوتف ما زبفرو تاميتا اقرباءالاجراج وتاثير حيل العتيقة تعبر عن تقديرها واجبة التاريخية في مواجهة التحديات بعزم واصرار بناء مجتمعات صحية متضامنة تنشر الخير والمودة تسعى لتحقيق أحلامنا معاً وفي كل خطوة نضعها نترك بصمة تنعكس على مستقبل أفضل يتجلى في الأفق.
Related Posts
