Farah Gulzar
"Environmental decisions are stronger when residents are genuinely involved from the beginning—not simply informed after decisions have already been made.
I would support accessible and meaningful public consultation on environmental projects and policies, including opportunities for residents to participate both online and in person. Consultation should be available in accessible, plain language and should reach residents who may not normally participate in City processes.
I would also support stronger neighbourhood-level engagement through community associations, schools, seniors’ groups, youth, environmental organizations and other local groups.
Most importantly, the City should close the feedback loop. Residents should be able to see “What We Heard, What We Did, and Why.” Public participation has little value if people never know what happened to their input.
My approach is simple: listen, explain, act, and report back to the community."
Shawn Menard
"In 2023, I moved a successful motion to create an interdepartmental working group on environment and climate change, which is now operational. I see this as a key structure for the city to work with community members in order to further our climate and ecological goals.
Much like the budget process, I will continue to push for staff to incorporate meaningful consultation at the outset of major projects including initiatives and reports, ensuring that community input helps shape major projects from day one, rather than being sought only after key decisions have already been made. When it comes to decisions affecting the environment, these are not decisions that can be easily undone. We need to ensure that residents fully understand the consequences of activities and decisions that are being contemplated and have their say rather than allowing irreversible decisions are forced through Council. I will always do my part to ensuring that residents are fully informed and can have their say."