Sandra Hanmer
City/Township Council · Waterloo Ward 1
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
- 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
- Require green infrastructure as part of development approvals (e.g. stormwater management, tree canopy, permeable surfaces)
C. Infrastructure and capital planning
- Prioritize active transportation and transit investment
- Require climate change mitigation and adaptation impact assessments for large growth decisions (greenfield expansions, settlement boundary changes)
- 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
Reducing our carbon footprint is something that we all (individually and collectively) need participate in. Municipalities have the opportunity and responsibility to lead by example where fiscally reasonable. Energy performance standards for new municipal or affordable housing are a good first step.