Jon Massimi
City/Township Council · Kitchener Ward 5
Back to candidatesClimate & 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 needs action and local governments can contribute in a few areas, but this is an issue better addressed at provincial and federal levels, 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
- 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)
C. Infrastructure and capital planning
- 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
Heating and operating municipal buildings accounts for a huge chunk of local government emissions. By prioritizing energy-efficient upgrades, HVAC updates, and heat recovery systems in city-owned properties, we cut emissions where we have direct control. At the same time, it lowers ongoing utility bills for taxpayers and protects the city budget against rising energy costs down the line, all without adding extra red tape or expenses for private homeowners and local businesses.