Janet Cox
City/Township Council · Woolwich Ward 3
Back to candidatesThis candidate finalized their responses after this guide and scoring methodology was published.
Climate & Sustainability
How should municipalities and the Region incorporate climate and sustainability into policy, including development and infrastructure decisions?select up to 3 per part
A. Perspective on climate change
- Climate change is an urgent and defining crisis of our time; reducing greenhouse gas emissions should be a primary consideration across municipal decision-making
- Commitments passed by previous councils, like the 50x30 pledge or declarations of climate emergencies, should guide current council decision making
- Our local and regional governments need to renew coordinated action towards implementing the Transform Waterloo Region strategy
B. Building and development standards
- 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)
- Use development agreements to require climate sustainability measures as a condition of approval
C. Infrastructure and capital planning
- Require climate risk and lifecycle cost analysis in major capital decisions
- Prioritize active transportation and transit investment
- Require an assessment of impacts on aquifer recharge
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
There should be strict energy performance standards for all municipal buildings and affordable housing. The energy savings will save money and benefit the environment at the same time.
Would you like to provide any additional context for your views on sustainability?candidate's own words
In a time of climate change and an affordability crisis, ALL decisions should be subjected to a lens of sustainability. Wasting energy, water and other resources wastes taxpayer dollars.