The Municipality of Grey Highlands had declared a 'climate crisis'.
The motion, supported unanimously by council, is designed to highlight the Municipality’s commitment to protecting the community, the economy and the eco-systems.
The motion directs staff to create a Climate Crisis Committee that includes two councillors, and at least five community representatives. The Committee will develop an Action Plan for fighting the climate crisis in Grey Highlands.
The resolution will be forwarded to the Premier of Ontario, the Minister of Environment, Conservation and Parks, the Association of Municipalities Ontario, local MPP Bill Walker and local MP Larry Miller.
It's an effort to send a signal to the federal and provincial governments that Grey Highlands sees this as a critical issue that must be addressed.
Grey Highlands Councillor Danielle Valiquette explained, "I am proud to be part of a council that recognizes the role municipalities have in fighting the climate crisis, and I have high hopes for the committee. It will provide the community with an avenue to affect change in Grey Highlands."
Numerous cities around the world have recently declared climate emergencies in response to findings of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. The House of Commons has also passed a non-binding motion to declare a national climate emergency in Canada.
