Think about climate when voting

Editor:

The results of a recent poll of Ontario residents found 78 per cent agreed that protection of the environment should be a top government priority. Candidates in Clearview’s municipal election were asked 10 yes-or-no questions centred on climate. The “Yes” rate of 80 per cent shows that most of the candidates believe climate change is an issue to be addressed by municipal government. McArthur (Ward 2) declined to respond. Walters (Ward 5) failed to respond. Witzke (Ward 4) answered “No” to eight questions. The other candidates, Bronée, Arrand, Dineen, Dockeray-Perry, Paterson, Broderick, Dogar, Paul, Walker, Ward and Beelen, all responded “Yes” to all 10 questions.

The first three questions asked candidates if they agreed to the following statements from:

Ontario Federation of Agriculture: “OFA acknowledges that Climate Change is happening and that it represents a real threat to agricultural production and the livelihoods of Ontario’s farmers. We recognize climate change is a global challenge requiring action and investment from governments, communities, businesses, and individuals.”

Government of Ontario: “Climate change causes severe storms that damage our homes, crops… The rise in average temperatures leads to more widespread extreme weather events like severe storms, flooding and heat waves.”

Ontario Association of Municipalities: “Municipal governments play a key role in safeguarding local environmental quality, building resiliency, and protecting their residents from significant climate change events… municipal governments across Ontario are at the forefront of climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts.”

Other than Witzke (“No”), McArthur, and Walters, all candidates agreed with these statements.

The next three questions asked candidates if they would support the current council’s approval to create a Climate Action Committee, to develop a Climate Action Plan, and have the Township’s Strategic and Official Plans ensure climate adaptation andmitigation measures are evaluated as part of future policy and procurement decisions. Other than Witzke (“No”), McArthur, and Walters, all candidates agreed with these statements.

To the question, “Are you concerned with the impact of potential extreme weather events on Clearview’s infrastructure and finances?” all candidates answered “Yes” other than Witzke (“No”), McArthur, and Walters.

Question 8 asked if Clearview should protect existing agricultural lands from further development; all responded “Yes,” except McArthur and Walters.

To question 9, if they support the role of the NVCA in protecting residents, property, and our natural environment, all responded “Yes” except Witzke (“No”), Van Staveren, McArthur and Walters.

To the final question, if they support the Niagara Escarpment Commission’s mandate to preserve Clearview’s unique escarpment land features, address biodiversity loss, and promote resiliency, all responded “Yes” except Van Staveren, McArthur and Walters.

We hope this information is of use as you enjoy exercising your democratic right to vote in this coming Clearview election.

Jim Campbell and Suzanne Wesetvik,

Duntroon.