The propositions:
1. Support for a strong site alteration by-law, with emphasis on “strong.”
2. Renewed commitment to an annual allocation towards an environmental lands acquisition fund.
3. Standing firm in support of the prohibition against future country lot subdivisions.
Jeff Koscik: “I am looking forward to working with you to accomplish these propositions.”
Vanessa Sutton: “If elected, I would support your four propositions.”
Colin Pennie: Full response Excerpts:
Re #1: “.. I most definitely support a strong site alteration by-law to protect our trees and greenspaces. … I would be happy to both work to garner support for this bylaw with other Councillors and ensure it is brought to Council this term.”
Re #2: “I agree and support the commitment to environmental lands acquisitions. The acquisitions fund also needs to be better protected in that other environmental initiatives should not have access to these funds.”
Re #3: “I will support Council’s decision to not allow any country lot estate development.”
Re #4: “As Councillor I will establish official open channels of communications that foster engagement and utilize expertise that exist in the Ottawa community. … The engagement of residents, associations, and organisations is an invaluable resource to ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainable community solutions.”
Michael Kostiuk: “I support items 1, 2 and 4. Item 3 is too vague for me to give 100% support since it is impossible to know what type of situation may occur in the future. however, I do not like giving exceptions to bylaws once they are passed.”
Riley Brockington:
#1: “I support the bylaw you reference.”
#2: “One of my priorities will be to examine the Budget in detail when it is presented, but also to work with staff and Council in setting the priorities and appropriate Budget process for this new Council. Thank you for the information that you have provided… I will now be vigilant in watching for slippage and raiding of reserve funds, such as the ELA Fund. If it is appropriate and possible, I will try to present a motion before Council to prevent the depletion of reserve funds for unspecified purposes. I understand the frustration.”
#3: “I simply do not know enough about this issue to make any firm commitments. If Council has already taken a stand, I will not seek to overturn that. But on this issue of vital concern, I am available to learn about the situation should your members wish to explain your views on this matter to me.”
#4: “I am not a supporter of having advisory committees if they aren’t functional or productive, however, given the committee exists within the City’s own advisory committee umbrella, then yes, it needs the resources to do its job effectively and I agree again, effective, productive and genuine consultation is expected.”
Mike Patton:
#1: “I do not oppose this proposition, however I would need to look at the ramifications a little closer and consult on this issue within my community before I was willing to support whole heartedly.”
#2: “I support the idea of the city acquiring environmentally sensitive properties where possible; funds for this program should be part of the budget discussions.”
#3: “Regardless of motions from Council that the Ontario Municipal Board will continue to allow this sort of development, we need a way to manage smart growth.”
#4: “The next Council needs to revamp the Advisory Committee program to ensure that they are far more effective in reflecting the will of the community.”
The remaining four candidates did not respond before the final deadline. However, a late response was received from Barbara Carroll. Her response is not included in the summaries posted here. She writes:
“I support all four propositions as written above.
On point #3, I would not say never compromise because you can’t have deadlock and have an effective council. I would pledge to share with you my thoughts and options before committing to a vote if I was elected to council.
On point #4, I wish we could reconstitute the advisory committees and facilitate them going into the wards to meet residents. It is not always possible for residents to come to City Hall. I supported the reduction of committees but do feel the role they were meant to fulfill still exists. I support a strong advisory committee or equivalent to achieve the objectives you listed..
Sorry for the delay in my responses. Rest assured that I am a strong supporter of the issues promoted by Greenspace Alliance.”