To The Haldimand Press
HALDIMAND—Climate Action Haldimand-Norfolk is a grassroots volunteer group advocating for practical actions to address climate change locally. They asked current election candidates to complete a questionnaire on climate change, which is the biggest threat to present and future generations. Recent extreme weather events remind us of the cost of failing to address the climate crisis.
Locally, storms resulting in flooding, erosion, damage, and power outages have given us a glimpse of what may be expected. In Haldimand County, by 2050, the average number of days with a maximum temperature of over 30 Celsius is expected to triple, from 22 to 66 days.
It may surprise many that Canada’s per person greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) rank is in the top 10% in the world, at 20.7 tonnes per person. In comparison, Norway has emissions of 7.3 tonnes per capita.
Municipalities can play a key role in addressing the causes of climate change. The following responses were received by Climate Action Haldimand Norfolk on two of the questions given in the questionnaire. The full questionnaire and responses will be available at haldimandpress.com.
The following responses were received from Haldimand municipal candidates.
1,A) What would you prioritize to help our communities adapt to the threats of climate change?
Mayoral candidates – only 1, Dick Passmore, of 5 responded.
“(I would) collect the data we need to make informed decisions. Everyone you speak to will have a different priority from their perspective, be it shoreline erosion, crop impact, heating and cooling costs, or the human toll. We need to gather the information about the stakeholders in our community, and the human, economic, and geographic costs of climate change so that we can move forward with planning.”
Ward 1, Stewart Patterson, acclaimed
“The threats of climate change are real and events caused by this are unfortunately increasing. We are fortunate to have a sound infrastructure in place throughout the County, that being said improvements can always be made to deal with rain runoff and flooding. We recently saw in Montreal after a heavy rain how the infrastructure can be overwhelmed. We need to plan for these events going forward. It’s no longer the 100 year storm that we need to be prepared for, but perhaps the 10-25 year storm due to climate change.”
2 of 2 Candidates for Ward 2 Councillor replied: John Metcalfe
“Conversion of some fleet vehicles to electric, Parks and Rec to use re-chargable hand tools, Preservation of Green spaces, Adding charging stations at county owned properties.”
Paul Beauvais, Candidate for Ward 2 Councillor
E suv for bylaw vehicles, and the earth start looking at ways to reduce the impact and try get everyone on board.
Dan Lawrence, Candidate for Ward 3 Councillor
“We must educate all on what initiatives are available and best for combating climate change myself included!”
James Kaspersetz, candidate for Ward 5 Councillor
“We are faced with so many examples of areas requiring assistance to adapt to the threat of climate change. For example, Lake Erie erosion is a major concern due to many factors such as warming of the lake due to the introduction of nutrient-based materials like municipal sewer discharges which aid in blue green algae growth which in turn warms the lake.”
Sheldon Simpson, Candidate for Ward 5 councillor
“Consultation with some of the most directly connected populations within our community. The agriculture industry, as well as the indigenous communities. We have surely seen many changes over the years here and these communities (generations) will have a direct personal connection to the changes. I would like to know their take on what they have seen, and proposals from them as to how to address them. I am a fan of public transit, however I don’t feel that the demand would supply the required funding. I have proposed before, and would stand by a proposal for a 100km card for local businesses and residents. This would allow us to be more self reliant, while adhering to the concepts of living within the regions bounty. It has the added benefit of increasing business support and increasing local revenue.”
LisaTaylor, candidate for Ward 6 Councillor
“Education is a key factor; the more people know the more they understand.”
- B) Who would you identify as the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and what would you do to help these individuals?
Dick Passmore, candidate for mayor
“Everyone will be affected by climate change, but some more than others. The most vulnerable include seniors and those on fixed incomes. Heating and cooling costs will increase, and temperature related medical conditions will put a greater burden on our already strained healthcare system. Marginalised people always bear the brunt of crises.”
Stewart Patterson, Ward 1 Councillor, acclaimed
“We have lots of residents from Nanticoke to Dunnville who live along the lake, many year round who are the first affected by storm surges. Our emergency services have done a great job of alerting folks and getting them moved to shelter stations before a crisis. Due to several reasons we are seeing a large increase of homeless folks in our area who are most vulnerable when these events occur. We need to ensure indoor spaces that we can accommodate these folks if they wish.”
John Metcalfe, Candidate for Ward 2 Councillor
“The most vulnerable in my opinion will be Seniors and the less fortunate.”
Dan Lawrence, Candidate for Ward 3 Councillor
“The most vulnerable impacts are again so many and we all need a steady campaign by all levels of government to identify and promote all to use climate friendly living in all facets of life.”
Julie Richardson, Candidate for Ward 3 Councillor
“Teen ages and retired individuals. In order to help these individuals I would suggest an electric vehicle rebates to our younger ages who worked to purchase the car get a certain percentage rebate. In order to help the climate exchange.”
James Kaspersetz, candidate for Ward 5 Councillor
“The elderly are a major concern for me, the local air quality coupled with the lack of resources in their homes to assist them.”
Sheldon Simpson, Candidate for Ward 5 councillor
“Ultimately, any damage or severe effects will be felt by everyone at some point. Those with financial means may be able to hide for a period of time, everyone shares this planet together. The question is very broad, and hard to pin down a specific consequence for a specific group, but those who will feel it first are those who are unable to “hide”. Who and where all depend on how it manifests. For example, high water levels are felt by those with waterside homes first. High temperatures are felt by those who work outside, and those who depend on a stable climate for their business such as agriculture. We all feel the pressure of invasive species moving further north as the climate allows greater tolerances.”
LisaTaylor, candidate for Ward 6 Councillor
I think all individuals would be vulnerable, but more the uneducated on this issue.
- Would you support a Haldimand County GHG emissions reduction plan for the community and maintain it as a priority in budget decisions?
Dick Passmore, candidate for mayor
“Yes. A plan built on a data that includes a long term target, and achievable steps on the way. There is no sense in picking a politically motivated target, we need to work from the evidence.”
Stewart Patterson, Ward 1 Councillor, acclaimed
“I would definitely be willing to look at any emissions reduction plan that would benefit the community and County as a whole. Cannot commit yes or no, not until the information is provided and ability to review it.”
John Metcalfe, Candidate for Ward 2 Councillor
“Yes.”
Paul Beauvais, Candidate for Ward 2 Councillor
“Yes.”
Dan Lawrence, Candidate for Ward 3 Councillor
“I would bring the request of an emissions study/report with recommendations as how to proceed moving forward.”
Julie Richardson, Candidate for Ward 3 Councillor
“I have not done enough research yet to answer.”
James Kaspersetz, candidate for Ward 5 Councillor
“GHG reductions are necessary in my opinion. We need to adopt emission reduction techniques in our purchasing decisions. Including capping methane emissions from our sewage treatment plants.”
Sheldon Simpson, Candidate for Ward 5 councillor
“I believe we all have a responsibility to do the best we can. I also understand that we are living in unprecedented times both within our climate, and our social / economic states. Believing what I do, I would always thrive to make decisions that take our environmental impact into serious consideration. For example, geothermal is a strong contender with few drawbacks for facility heating and air conditioning.” Initial cost is usually the biggest barrier to this type of system, and often hard to “sell” at the municipal level where “lowest bidder” often rules. This is however, very short sighted and I believe a major component flaw in our current system. Usually within 8-15 years (2-4 election cycles on average), the system has more than recovered its initial costs in operational cost savings. Not necessarily the best for re-elect strategies, but certainly better in the long run for everyone. To commit to a GHG reduction target is difficult without knowing the specifics proposed, but I would promise this, that decisions would be made by myself in our mutual best interest, including long term planning. This would address the more sustainable and less wasteful practices that are often overlooked due simply to short term cost appearance.”
LisaTaylor, candidate for Ward 6 Councillor
“After reading and possibly reading more information on GHG, it is definitely something to consider.”
3.A) If elected, what steps would you take to decrease GHG emissions from travel in Haldimand County?
Dick Passmore, candidate for mayor
“I would encourage a move to renewables, and work diligently to attract both green industries and industries that have a minimal carbon footprint to locate in our area.”
Stewart Patterson, Ward 1 Councillor, acclaimed
“That is a hard question considering the vast size of Haldimand. As you are aware, one of Councils commitments this term was to look at some type of bus service throughout the County. This would cut down on individual car travel and also support folks who do not have transportation. Unfortunately this has not come to fruition yet.”
John Metcalfe, Candidate for Ward 2 Councillor
“Planned trips, More Virtual meetings, Work from home policies, Ride shares to work, Cycling or walking to work incentives.”
Paul Beauvais, Candidate for Ward 2 Councillor
“E vehicles.”
Dan Lawrence, Candidate for Ward 3 Councillor
“If elected I will continue to use phone, email, zoom if at all possible to solve any issues and problems, thus saving travel.”
James Kaspersetz, candidate for Ward 5 Councillor
“On an individual basis I would opt for committee meetings to be held via teleconference.”
Sheldon Simpson, Candidate for Ward 5 councillor
“We need to include transportation of goods in our definition of travel.
The 100 km card I feel is a great way to start. This would be based off of postal codes and local business that would like to participate. The idea is to offer discounts to local communities to shop local businesses. It also allows business to benefit and invest in Haldimand, knowing that growth here is profitable. As a local initiative, it would also encourage us to stay local for our needs, reducing our travel and dependance outside of our community. If we can keep more local, than we reduce travel needs. We live in the “salad bowl” of Ontario, as well we have many small businesses set up here. We can become more self dependant, while financially prospering from such an initiative.”
LisaTaylor, candidate for Ward 6 Councillor
“There are several commuters for job purposes in Haldimand County, so I would encourage car pooling plus a public means of transportation in and out of Haldimand.”
3. B) Currently there are only three public EV chargers in Haldimand County (and zero fast chargers). What is your stance on installing electric car chargers throughout the county, while taking advantage of current funding opportunities?
Dick Passmore, candidate for mayor
“My wife and I have owned EVs since 2018, and they are our only vehicles. I have publicly stated that we need to increase the number of charging stations across the county, as we live in a charging desert. Our house is listed on one app as a charger for people visiting our community, and has been used by travellers staying in the area. The Rural Connectivity Fund is one way that we should be seeking funding.”
Stewart Patterson, Ward 1 Councillor, acclaimed
“In principle, I’m all for EV chargers at all County sites such as arena’s, libraries, community centers, etc. However in today’s climate with inflation rates at a 40 year high and the struggle Council will have in keeping residents’ taxes low, I cannot see putting this cost on the backs of the ratepayers. If there are Provincial funding opportunities out there, I would be all for our Economic Development group looking into this. Another idea may be lobbying business and industry to financially support this idea. I recently watched the Detroit auto show where Chrysler stated all their cars will be electric by 2029 and I am sure the others will be close behind. So EV charges will definitely be needed in Haldimand and throughout the Country.”
John Metcalfe, Candidate for Ward 2 Councillor
“I would advocate to have charging stations installed at county facilities.”
Dan Lawrence, Candidate for Ward 3 Councillor
“I requested Staff to investigate the installation of EV chargers within the County during this term and it is on the docket looking at programs both provincially and federally to aid implementation if possible. If we can provide the service at a responsible cost to the taxpayer like any program and service, it needs to be fully explored. But as we move forward with more and more electric vehicles, the responsibility rests on the vehicle owner.”
Julie Richardson, Candidate for Ward 3 Councillor
“I am 💯 in favour and this is on my platform as well.”
James Kaspersetz, candidate for Ward 5 Councillor
“We should embrace the need for charging stations throughout the county.”
Sheldon Simpson, Candidate for Ward 5 councillor
“Current government incentives at this time are only mediocre at best (in my opinion) to install these chargers. I also would like more information on the demographics of how many of these vehicles we have in our community. I am concerned that the financial investment would benefit only a very small portion of our constituents at this time. I think a better investment of our resources would be to assist those who are considering this type system for their home or business. A reduction in the costs and red tape if you will, for permits and such. A review of our current by-laws may allow us to better incentivize and support those who wish to make this investment. With this may come a larger network of EV’s and thus more support for such systems.”
LisaTaylor, candidate for Ward 6 Councillor
“With federal funding available, if the need to install EV chargers is in future demand, it should be considered.”
- What steps would you take to reduce emissions from buildings, including heating of residences and businesses?
Dick Passmore, candidate for mayor
“We definitely should be working on increasing our green canopy through the planting of deciduous trees wherever possible. All buildings erected should be taking passive design into consideration, as well as the requirement to work toward a whole-building systems approach as a conservation model. The design phase is one of the most important parts of the process. This would include the use of solar energy generation, zone heating, higher efficiency appliances, better quality windows and doors, use of ambient exterior light, etc.”
Stewart Patterson, Ward 1 Councillor, acclaimed
“We seem to hear the term more and more regarding new green buildings. Some new builds include solar panels on the roof that generate enough energy to power part of the building and heat it. This is a whole new concept to me but well worth while having an expert make suggestions on current building upgrades or what is required in new builds to reduce emissions.”
John Metcalfe, Candidate for Ward 2 Councillor
“Ensuring the departments responsible for the buildings and facilities are doing everything to reduce emissions.”
Paul Beauvais, Candidate for Ward 2 Councillor
“To see if there are ways of reusing extra heat or cooling to other places or reduce the setting.”
Dan Lawrence, Candidate for Ward 3 Councillor
“I am not educated enough to answer this, that is the honest answer. With that said again, education of all is imperative moving forward and finding solutions to implement for residents, business and industry.”
Julie Richardson, Candidate for Ward 3 Councillor
“Make your home more energy efficient with subsidies, Plant more trees . Every cemetery should have a rule that a tree needs to be with every burial spot either a mini to a large it would have to be planned. Also charging stations in every town. I have so many ideas well not all mine but the communities.”
James Kaspersetz, candidate for Ward 5 Councillor
“Would love to see more white reflective roofing systems along with a green roof program. Organic green roof systems are very efficient.”
Sheldon Simpson, Candidate for Ward 5 councillor
“I am a big fan of Geothermal systems. Again, tying into my above statements, I believe in supporting systems that have long term benefits by reducing costs and complexity that hinder the initial decision making process.”
LisaTaylor, candidate for Ward 6 Councillor
“Encouraging new builds to consider Green Development Standard, showing them how much further down the road it will save them money and the environment.”
- The Ontario government recently announced plans to increase gas-powered electricity, making Ontario one of the few places switching to more carbon-intensive power sources during the climate crisis. What role do you see for the the county in addressing this unfortunate turn?
Stewart Patterson, Ward 1 Councillor, acclaimed
“There is probably a role for the County to support groups like yourselves and others to lobby the Provincial Government. Do we as a County have any influence over the Province, no, but as the saying goes, there is power in numbers.”
John Metcalfe, Candidate for Ward 2 Councillor
“This is unfortunate, However with new technologies emerging it may be a short lived exercise.”
Paul Beauvais, Candidate for Ward 2 Councillor
“More wind turbine and solar energy.”
Dan Lawrence, Candidate for Ward 3 Councillor
“We can voice our concerns to the Provincial government plus neighbouring municipalities in an effort to look to alternative solutions good for the climate and cost efficient, however ultimately the Province holds the decision making authority.”
Julie Richardson, Candidate for Ward 3 Councillor
“If I have many shouting to address it . I will and I will have majority backing me in order to voice it out.”
James Kaspersetz, candidate for Ward 5 Councillor
“The county should express their disapproval in adding more natural gas generation and instead look at existing technologies like methane capture from our waste treatment plants and the use of solar power for our municipal offices.”
Sheldon Simpson, Candidate for Ward 5 councillor
“More research on my part is needed to address this question, and something I am willing to explore in the future. At this time I simply don’t understand enough about this particular topic to provide an opinion. Please bare with me, I am learning everyday.”
LisaTaylor, candidate for Ward 6 Councillor
“With all of the current wind and solar installations throughout Ontario, I am shocked at this plan by the Province. The County could offer incentives to companies that could provide a green solution to higher electricity demands.”
Please add any other suggestions you have regarding mitigating and adapting to climate change in Haldimand County.
Dick Passmore, candidate for mayor
“We need to do everything in our power to make decisions for the next several generations of residents. This must include advocating for our local community, speaking out against the loss of green space, and lobbying for a return to a common sense, future ready energy plan. This will include a reliance on renewables, not on fossil fuels.”
Paul Beauvais, Candidate for Ward 2 Councillor
“Improve energy efficiency lighting.”
Dan Lawrence, Candidate for Ward 3 Councillor
“Again education is imperative for all! We must be climate/environment friendly moving forward. Education and then finding solutions for implementation is a necessity as we move to the future, we owe it to our children!”
Julie Richardson, Candidate for Ward 3 Councillor
“I would love to have a demo on what we can do to make a change and have it shown at a community hall which I would love to push for as well. I would have volunteered community members be a spokesperson to pass on their thoughts on what can help and together we can make change. The key to progress is working together. As the saying goes the more the merrier.”
Sheldon Simpson, Candidate for Ward 5 councillor
“I believe in a methodical review of current practices and pushing for new ways of thinking on the municipal level. Long term decision making, environmental considerations, population benefits are very important for our future. There are no magic bullets, and this will take some time, but I believe some things just make sense. We need all the information available to make wise decisions, and I am committed to providing the best possible information for us all to understand.”
