Muskoka Lakes Township — Councillor — Ward A /Ward 1
1. What actions have you personally taken to support a greener, more sustainable climate?
In my daily life I am constantly reminded that even the small things make a difference. I have had “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” Drilled in my head from a young age, and I do my best to live by these values. I enjoy hobby carpentry and always attempt to upcycle furniture before deciding to buy something new. I constantly encourage my co-workers to use digital documents instead of printing, and always challenge them to find new solutions to old problems. Like most people I am willing to admit that as much as I work to take greener actions, I do sometimes fall short. The list of small things we can do may seem insignificant, but if everyone took even a small action, many small things make a big deal when put together.
2. What opportunities for climate leadership at the municipal level (e.g. greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs)) would you champion in one or more of these areas: Buildings | Housing | Land use (sprawl) | Transportation | Other
At the municipal level the best thing the Township of Muskoka Lakes can do to positively affect climate change is to work on affordable and sustainable housing, improvement of township facilities, and proper land use.
This would include creating green policies that encourage sustainable living in our community. Things like Tiny homes, off-grid living, LED lighting, and a long-term plan to ensure that the carbon footprint of township facilities is minimal. Last, but not least, Muskoka Lakes is a township that literally has “Lake” in its name. Preserving and maintaining the quality of the lakes in our township should always be our number one priority. The entire community is built around this resource.
3. A long-term problem requires a long-term solution. What is your 100-year plan? If elected, what would be your first action?
My 100-year plan is simple in concept, but critically important. In a world of constant development, let Muskoka be as beautiful and as clean 100 years from now as it is today. Muskoka can and should be a driving force in sustainable development because people love Muskoka for the beauty of this place. If we ruin it, then it’s gone. If we pave it all over, then it’s gone. Our goal should always be to never reach that tipping point. My first priority is to look for ways to encourage sustainable and affordable housing options in Muskoka.