Nathan Cadeau

City/Township Council · Woolwich Ward 1

All topics Housing Getting Around Climate Food Growth & Planning Budget & Taxes

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 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

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 climate change mitigation and adaptation impact assessments for large growth decisions (greenfield expansions, settlement boundary changes)
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

I’d require lifecycle cost and climate risk analysis for major municipal capital purchases, including vehicles, buildings and mechanical systems. We should look at the full cost of an asset over its useful life, including energy, fuel, maintenance and replacement costs. Where a lower-emission option also provides good long-term value, we should take it. That gives us a practical way to reduce emissions while protecting taxpayers from higher operating costs down the road.

Would you like to provide any additional context for your views on sustainability?candidate's own words

I think municipal climate action should focus on the areas where we have real authority and can show clear results. In Woolwich, that includes protecting farmland and groundwater recharge, improving tree canopy, managing stormwater, reducing energy use in municipal facilities and making smarter capital decisions.