Comment 18 – comments and feedback

Jordan Flemming

I am writing to express my concern with the plans to redistrict London's electoral map.

The 2021 census data shows that London is the fastest-growing city in Ontario. However, with this rapid growth come new challenges. That is why I was alarmed to see the commission's proposed map for London. For the last 25 years, London has had three urban seats. Under the new proposal, our urban representation will be reduced to two. The rest of the city will then be divided into seats covering parts of the city and large swaths surrounding rural townships: an alarming change from the commission's office. Because I am located in South London, my district would encompass St. Thomas, a riding that faces completely different challenges and would not have the same goals or priorities as someone who lives in South London. The map makes absolutely no sense.

Many rural communities outside of London are worried about being drowned out by being lumped in with a much larger urban population. They are afraid their voices will get lost, and their issues won't get the fair representation they deserve. As someone in an urban setting I do not share the same priorities that rural individuals do and vice versa. It is not fair for the residents of London nor those who live in rural communities or the City of St. Thomas.

London doesn't have enough population to have four seats entirely within the city limit but, this shouldn't result in the city losing that urban focused representation. Neighbourhoods that have been working together to address the severe challenges faced by our city could be split apart by the new boundaries. While I appreciate the work the commission is trying to do to address the growing population, it should consider the historical boundaries that we have worked with for decades. London must maintain at least three urban seats. To do otherwise means London, a growing city with numerous challenges will not be properly represented in Parliament.

I ask the commission reconsider this redistricting of London and leave London with London West, London North Centre, and London-Fanshawe.

Best regards,

Jordan Flemming