SAMPLE LETTER TEMPLATE:

Dear Councillor XXXXXXXXX,

I hope this letter finds you well amidst the chaos of COVID-19 and the climate emergency we all find ourselves in. I am writing to you today as a concerned Hamiltonian to request that the City of Hamilton commit to developing and implementing Green Development Standards (GDS) in order to tackle the climate change issues affecting every resident.

*Please consider adding your personal experience here if comfortable (ex. I have been living in Hamilton for 15 years, and how you’ve been affected by the climate crisis)*

Since Hamilton declared a climate emergency in 2019, and more recently made the decision to move forward with rejection of urban boundary expansion, the increased demand for new housing necessitates a policy that directly influences the efficiency and resiliency of new infrastructure development and is needed now more than ever. Many other municipalities within the Greater Toronto Hamilton Area (GTHA) such as Whitby, Brampton, Halton Hills, Toronto and more have already enacted legislation for Green Development Standards (GDS). According to the recent 2021 budget decisions made by city council, $471 million is being reserved for capital infrastructure projects. According to Engage Hamilton, buildings are responsible for 14% of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Hamilton and a GDS policy will incentivize developers to consider equity, inclusivity, and climate resiliency in the process of sourcing materials and designing infrastructure. By incorporating an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) approach to building plans, developers can ensure new developments benefit all Hamiltonians, whether that is through increased energy efficiency, ample tree canopy to provide shade, or the re-use of greywater to name a few examples.

*Please consider adding a personal anecdote here about the kind of buildings you’d like to see in Hamilton*

 GDS offers numerous opportunities for infrastructure to be more climate resilient during a time when climate change is already drastically impacting people’s lives, with a disproportionate effect on marginalized communities. Heat waves and air quality issues are negatively impacting the health of our vulnerable seniors and residents already in precarious situations. Many Hamiltonians do not have the resources to adapt to the changing climate and socio-economic hardships that come with it, requiring government services and intervention to protect the health of Hamiltonians.

As an engaged Hamiltonian I urge the city to include the following in a GDS policy *Please put your own GDS policy visions below*:

• Diverse public consultation methods that combat digital divide in the design and planning of all new developments
• Required renewable energy sources in all new developments when applicable
• Pedestrian accessibility and proximity to transit or active transportation methods

The effects from these infrastructure projects will not only affect today’s Hamiltonians but their families for generations to come. Thus, it is of great importance that a GDS policy in Hamilton is prioritized by the council and treated with urgency.

Thank you for your time and consideration on bringing these recommendations to the council.

(Add your salutations ex. A concerned Hamiltonian,)

CLICK HERE to access contact information for all members of Hamilton City Council.  

If you'd like to send your letter to the mayor and all members of Hamilton City Council, this block of emails can be copied/pasted into the sender section to reach out to all at once. We also encourage writers to add a personal anecdote if comfortable for added effect.

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