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.
4. The City’s Advisory Committees should be genuine bridges between the public and Council.
Neither of the two candidates responded by the deadline. However, David Lee replied later. His responses are not included in the summary available here. Mr. Lee writes:
#1: “I don’t feel that I have the background knowledge on this to give a proper answer at this time. However, if elected, I will be more than happy to sit down with you to discuss this or any other issue on which you might have concerns.”
#2: “I believe that the Fund should only be used as intended, and in fact, where possible, should be given a boost out of the City’s annual budget. $1.6 million isn’t going to go far these days ! Here in Stittsville, we have, in the Poole Creek basin, a large area of privately owned wetland, which I believe has been on the City’s wish list for purchasing for some years. It remains in private ownership largely due to lack of available public money.”
#3: “Though not particularly familiar with the full background to this issue, I can well understand any environmental rationale behind it. And, of course the City should stand behind its own Official Plan and not let itself be strong-armed by some of the heavyweights of the development community such as Cavanagh, or Minto. The City is always quick to quote the requirements of the Plan to any community groups seeking relief on some issue!”
#4: “I agree that Advisory Committees should certainly be more open in their decision/recommendation making process and invite public input where appropriate. The City’s public consultation process with Open Houses and Information Sessions barely does lip service to citizen participation and appearances before Standing Committees and their five minute rules are frequently frustrating and demeaning ( and frequently ignored).”