The Don Valley West for Environmental Action is a group of concerned residents who want to know how our next councillor will deal with our rapidly changing environment.
And I do too!
Back in July, I was informed by the Green Neighbours Network (GNN) about a new group taking shape in our Don Valley West riding. Mike Green from GNN was there from the start to guide and help them organize.
By August, the group had blossomed from five to 10 strong, and together they created the following mission statement:
“We are a group of concerned residents committed to fostering a sustainable and resilient future. As we approach the upcoming by-election in Ward 15, we seek to engage candidates in meaningful dialogue about their positions on environmental issues.”
Music to my ears!
Each member has a particular area of interest, with the common denominator being to advocate for a healthy environment…for all.
Here are just a few members from the team, their areas of interest, along with some of their questions for candidates.
Karen Mergler is a long-time resident of Don Valley West who spent 33 years in the multi-residential sector. Her interests lie in finding green solutions for the built residential environment with a focus on supporting design and retrofits that bring both reductions in energy and water use.
Karen asks:
- Could you describe what steps you would take to encourage the transition by homeowners and businesses to solar and other green energy sources?
- Do you have any thoughts about how Toronto could reduce waste and the emissions from waste?
Janet Young has lived in Don Valley West for 28 years and has a background in graphic design. Having worked with GrandTrees Climate Solutions (to help get trees planted throughout the city) and Toronto Nature Stewards (a community organization working to increase biodiversity in our ravines and natural areas), she states her interests are in creating and maintaining healthy green spaces.
Janet asks:
- What do you see as the issues regarding our parks, especially in view of the ever-increasing density in the southern part of our ward?
- What measures will you take to protect our ravines?
Christine Bear is a biomedical researcher at SickKids Hospital with a focus on respiratory health. She sees the need for an effective government response to the health concerns driven by traffic pollution and worsening heat for our kids and vulnerable adults.
Christine asks:
- How would you help to mitigate the damaging effects of severe weather events caused by climate change, especially for our most vulnerable residents?
Holly Reid has lived in Leaside for more than 35 years and is well-known for her cycling column in Leaside Life. Her passion for safe active transportation options comes from a desire to see people reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by choosing walking and biking more often.
Holly asks:
- Are there transportation improvements for both active transportation and transit in Don Valley West that would meaningfully assist in contributing to a lower carbon community?
Lisa Smecca, the administrative co-ordinator of this group, had a long career in human resources along with training and development. More recently, she has been involved in activities related to climate change as part of her commitment to making the world a safer place for her daughter, and all the children of the world.
Lisa asks:
- If you were elected councillor, would you meet regularly with our organization and make space in your newsletter for a climate corner?
By the middle of October (and at the time of my writing this) the group had interviewed nine of the 16 candidates. Results of their findings can be found at the Green Neighbours Network website at gnntoronto.ca/dvwbyelection and at the Toronto Climate Action Network, www.tcan.ca.
November 4th is just around the corner, but there’s still time to do some homework before you cast your vote.
