Members present: Paul Johanis (chair), J.P. Unger, Jason Kania, Daniel Buckles, Erwin Dreessen, Arto Keklikian, Sharli Jodhani
- Adoption of the agenda
The proposed agenda was agreed upon. Moved by Jason, seconded by Erwin.
- Administrative items
a. Minutes of October 16, 2023 meeting (for approval)
Moved by Erwin, seconded by Jason. Carried.
b. Treasurer’s report
Paul reported that the memorial tree for Amy Kempster (d. January 17, 2022) was planted in the summer and the memorial plaque has now been engraved and installed at Champlain Park. Daniel provided some background on the timeline and location of the tree and plaque. The Board considered in May 2022 having the GA cover a 50% share of the cost of the plaque (the balance would be covered by the FCA) but no motion was tabled at the time. Paul arranged for the engraving and paid the full amount of $565.00 on his credit card. He requested a refund of the GA’s 50% share, which is $282.50. Moved by Daniel, seconded by Jason. Carried.
c. Website report
Following the discussion at the last general meeting about the type of assistance that would be required to execute our project to improve the timeliness and comprehensiveness of our website, Paul reported that a new volunteer has been recruited to take on the role of project leader, Sharli Jodhani. Sharli has a Masters in Environmental Studies from Carleton University, where she is currently a research assistant. She has extensive work experience in the field, both in India and in Canada. In addition to volunteering, she has also applied to become a member of the Greenspace Alliance, which application was considered and approved by the members.
d. The Erwin Dreessen Fonds at the Ottawa Archives
A few years ago, as Erwin was moving residences and drawing back on his involvement on new GA activities (although he remains very active on several files!), he donated many boxes of documents accumulated over the decades to the Ottawa Archives. The GA as a group decided to seek having these historical records designated as an official fonds, named after Erwin in recognition of his central role in the creation and retention of this invaluable source of information on the work of the GA and the state of environmental advocacy in Ottawa over the last 20+ years. We are happy to announce that there now is an official Erwin Dreeseen fonds at the Ottawa Archives, open to the public. Many thanks to Daniel for taking the lead on this effort.
e. Board update:
Daniel took the opportunity to announce that he would be stepping down as Director, effective immediately, in anticipation of his moving away from Ottawa in the New Year. Since joining the GA in 2015, Daniel has been a very active and influential member and Director, taking the lead on many files, building out the reach and effective collaboration of the Alliance through his extensive contacts in the environmental community and his ability to rally support for the cause. This was particularly evident in the creation and ongoing administration of the Peoples Official Plan coalition, in which he played a key leadership role. The Board and members express their thanks to him for his contribution to the aims of the GA and wish all the best in his future endeavours.
