David Guerin
City/Township Council · Cambridge Ward 7
Back to candidatesClimate & Sustainability
- Climate change needs action and local governments can contribute in a few areas, but this is an issue better addressed at provincial and federal levels
- Our local and regional governments need to renew coordinated action towards implementing the Transform Waterloo Region strategy
- Where possible, require or incentivize energy efficiency standards in new development, beyond current provincial minimums
- Create financial incentives for low-carbon construction (e.g. development charge reductions, expedited approvals, density bonuses)
- Require green infrastructure as part of development approvals (e.g. stormwater management, tree canopy, permeable surfaces)
- Require climate risk and lifecycle cost analysis in major capital decisions
- Require an assessment of impacts on aquifer recharge
- Align municipal operations (fleet, facilities, procurement) with regional climate commitments
Describe one concrete policy, incentive, or decision you would prioritize to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Where possible, explain how it balances environmental goals with fiscal responsibility.candidate's own words
I would prioritize transitioning municipal vehicles to lower-emission options as they reach the end of their normal replacement cycle, where the lifecycle cost makes financial sense. That means avoiding premature replacement of serviceable vehicles simply to meet a target, but also looking beyond the purchase price when new vehicles are required. Fuel, maintenance, expected lifespan and available infrastructure should all be part of the calculation. This is an area where municipalities can directly reduce emissions while also potentially lowering long-term operating costs. I think the strongest climate policies are often the ones that achieve an environmental benefit while also making good financial sense for taxpayers.
Would you like to provide any additional context for your views on sustainability?candidate's own words
I believe sustainability should be built into good municipal decision-making rather than treated as a separate objective. That means considering lifecycle costs, climate resilience, water protection, energy use and infrastructure capacity when making major decisions. It also means recognizing where municipalities have the greatest ability to make a difference. Through land-use planning, transportation, municipal facilities, fleet decisions, stormwater management and the design of new growth. I support practical measures that reduce emissions and improve resilience when they are effective, financially responsible and within municipal control. I believe the strongest climate commitments are those that lead to measurable action and results For me, the goal is to make Cambridge more resilient, efficient and sustainable without losing sight of affordability or the day-to-day services residents depend on.