Terry Deakin

Following are the answers given by the candidate. See other candidates

1.  What actions have you personally taken to support a more sustainable climate?

I have developed a social enterprise that recycles mattresses and decreases the amount of organic and inorganic materials in the landfill. I have purchased a van to transport a group of people to work at the Shelter Farm to decrease vehicle travel back and forth. I have a strong recycle policy at my home and my office. I have reduced my weekly garbage by over 60%. I wear warmer clothing when the outside temperature decreases and heat less of my home. 

2.  What opportunities do you see at your municipal/electoral area/school board level to reduce greenhouse gas emissions?

I see an opportunity to work with the ACRD to implement an organics collection program and to make recycling free for our businesses and our schools. 

3. What will you do, if elected, to overcome polarization in local politics around the challenges of climate change and to build a middle ground that encourages listening, understanding, and consensus that can move climate change action forward?

My campaign is about “building community together”; it is about working as a team to hear all community concerns. I am committed to researching and learning about each concern/issue and to working together to discover opportunities to help our community grow, prosper, and develop in a way that is considerate of the environment and the people.  

4. What opportunities do you see for climate leadership in the following sectors? Please pick at least two.
Transportation, Housing, Land use and Development, Equity.

Housing – Tiny homes, prefab homes, and energy efficient homes are important in developing housing. I will advocate for more tiny home developments and allowing current property/homeowners to develop housing options, including suites, to accommodate more community residents and decrease homelessness.

Equity – I read this in a paper titled Defining Climate Equity, “Climate equity is about more than emissions. We have to prioritize human beings. Marginalized communities must benefit in climate solutions & opportunities”. This speaks loudly to me and is something that I stand up for. Inclusion, diversity, and equity are important to the well-being of our community on many fronts.

5.  If elected, what would your first action be toward reducing greenhouse gases in your area of responsibility? 

If elected, my first action will be to understand what the City of Port Alberni has done to work toward a sustainable climate and what the opportunities are for us to move forward. Our commitment as council members must include equity. Many issues and concerns deserve attention, and council must decide what is an equitable amount of time, energy, and financial responsibility to commit to each issue. 

6.  The climate emergency requires long term thinking and planning.  How do you envision a climate sustainable City/Electoral Area/School District, 50 years from now?

Planning for climate sustainability has not been in my wheelhouse and I don’t believe I understand enough to contribute to the long-term plan. I will commit to listening, learning, and understanding prior to any recommendations and/or action planning/taking.