MINUTES - PUBLIC - ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE CHANGE COMMITTEE (CELCC)
⭐ Notable items (4)
The public raised concerns regarding UV-based septic systems, greywater heat recovery, the enforcement and education strategy for the pesticide by-law (955-2024), and the use of the herbicide Dicamba. City staff provided updates on current staffing for by-law enforcement and ongoing communication strategies.
Members and partners discussed positive environmental developments, including the recent municipal budget's support for climate action, the provincial phase-out of fossil fuels in buildings by 2040, and new recycling initiatives.
Staff presented an update on the Water Management Plan, covering topics such as wetland protection, stormwater management, septic system regulations, and urban swimming opportunities. The commission discussed the need for better integration between water management and urban development projects.
The commission reviewed the Urban Forestry Plan, highlighting successful tree protection projects and discussing future strategies for increasing the urban canopy. Key topics included tree planting in residential areas, stricter penalties for illegal tree cutting, and collaboration with the Kitigan Zibi community on nursery projects.
The meeting was officially opened in a hybrid format. It marks the first of six scheduled sessions for the year and the final year of the 2024-2025 work plan, with the schedule adjusted due to the upcoming municipal elections.
The commission approved the meeting agenda with two additional items: an activity mention for Action Climat Outaouais and an announcement regarding Green Fund consultations.
Members confirmed they have no conflicts of interest regarding the items on the agenda.
The minutes from the previous meeting were formally filed; no further follow-up actions were required.
The public raised concerns regarding UV-based septic systems, greywater heat recovery, the enforcement and education strategy for the pesticide by-law (955-2024), and the use of the herbicide Dicamba. City staff provided updates on current staffing for by-law enforcement and ongoing communication strategies.
Members and partners discussed positive environmental developments, including the recent municipal budget's support for climate action, the provincial phase-out of fossil fuels in buildings by 2040, and new recycling initiatives.
The commission reviewed the 2024 progress report, noting 50% completion of planned items, and discussed the schedule and priorities for 2025.
Staff presented an update on the Water Management Plan, covering topics such as wetland protection, stormwater management, septic system regulations, and urban swimming opportunities. The commission discussed the need for better integration between water management and urban development projects.
The commission reviewed the Urban Forestry Plan, highlighting successful tree protection projects and discussing future strategies for increasing the urban canopy. Key topics included tree planting in residential areas, stricter penalties for illegal tree cutting, and collaboration with the Kitigan Zibi community on nursery projects.
The commission received updates on an upcoming greenhouse gas analysis by Action Climat Outaouais and announced that public consultations for the city's Green Fund will take place from February 12 to March 2, 2025.
The schedule for the remaining 2025 commission meetings was confirmed.
The meeting was adjourned at 6:26 p.m.