A motion to establish an environmental committee for the District was officially repealed following a council vote, with Councillor Michelle Martins citing a lack of support from colleagues for environmental initiatives.
“I do see the benefit of an environmental committee. We as a municipality need to have a deep understanding of our natural assets, especially if we are going to advertise outdoor living for both recruitment and tourism efforts,” Martins told council. “But I see there is not an appetite on this council to consider the environment in a way that I would have hoped.”
Martins moved to withdraw the motion, which she initially brought forward in July 2024, which proposed forming an advisory committee to provide recommendations on environmental policies and sustainability initiatives. The motion had been tabled until council reviewed a draft terms of reference, which was presented in October but failed to gain traction.
The councillor expressed frustration over repeated challenges in passing environmental motions, stating that efforts often required significant revisions to gain approval. She also noted that previous discussions on environmental protection had been “contentious” and lacked productive engagement.
“I feel like myself and staff have spent a considerable amount of time heavily editing motions to appeal to the majority. Even when environmental motions have passed, it has felt like I had to beg and plead,” she said.
Opposition to the committee stemmed largely from concerns about overlaps with other committees and environmental advocacy groups. Councillor Mario Feldhoff supported repealing the motion but took issue with Martins’ characterization of council’s environmental stance.
“I’m concerned with the environment,” Feldhoff said. “There are several environmental groups in the community, and we have met with them and will continue to meet with them to deal with specific issues as they arise.”
Despite withdrawing the motion, Martins left open the possibility of revisiting the discussion in the future. “Even if one person changes at this table, that could make all the difference,” she said. “I’m holding out hope that next term, these conversations could be more productive.”
