Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutPSD-055-07 Cl!!fillgron REPORT PLANNING SERVICES Meeting: GENERAL PURPOSE AND ADMINISTRATION MEETING Date: Monday, May 7, 2007 Report #: PSD-055-07 File No.: PLN 14.1 ~~lJion *~PA--33q-07 By-law #: Subject: GREEN COMMUNITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS: It is respectfully recommended that the General Purpose and Administration Committee recommend to Council the following: 1. THAT Report PSD-055-07 be received; 2. THAT Council endorse the Terms of Reference for the Green Community Advisory Committee; and 3. THAT the Mayor and a Member of Council be designated as members of the Green Community Advisory Committee. Submitted by: D id ~ Crome, M.C.I.P., RP.P. Director of Planning Services .""':~~ Reviewed by:'----"" Franklin Wu, Chief Administrative Officer LB*CS*DC*sh*df*jd 1 May 2007 CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF CLARINGTON 40 TEMPERANCE STREET, BOWMANVILLE, ONTARIO L 1C 3A6 T (905)623-3379 F (905)623-0830 REPORT NO.: PSD-055-07 1.0 PURPOSE PAGE 2 1.1 In S~~te~ber 2006, staff presente~ a report outlining a process through which the Munrclpallty would d~v~lop the Clanngton Green Community Strategy. By Resolution #GPA-343-06 Council directed staff to work with the Clarington Board of Trade (CBOT) for the purpose of: · creating a Community Committee appointed by Council for the Development of the Green Community Strategy; · to prepare a detailed Terms of Reference (for the development and the mandate of the Committee): and · to conduct a community survey. 1.2 The purpose of this report is to present the Terms of Reference prepared for the Green Community Advisory Committee (GCAC), to highlight the results of the community survey and to initiate the preliminary phase of the Green Community Strategy. This report also sets both the global and local context as to why Clarington must become a leader as a Green Community. The Green Community Strategy is a perfect example of how local planning will assist with global stewardship through a partnership between the municipality and the business community. 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 Urban development, lifestyle patterns, energy consumption and health are inextricably linked. Urban planning decisions such as density, the mix of uses, and transit infrastructure plays a significant role in the overall energy demand of a community. However, energy has not traditionally been a factor in decision making for Canadian communities. The energy implications of urban planning decisions are therefore often not fully realized until well after they are built out. 2.2 Efficient development patterns optimize the use of land, protect natural resources, and public investment in infrastructure and public service facilities. These land use patterns promote a mix of housing, employment, parks and open spaces, and transportation choices that facilitate pedestrian mobility and other modes of travel. They also support the financial well-being of the Province and municipalities over the long term, and minimize the undesirable effects of development, including impacts on air, water and other resources. Strong, livable and healthy communities enhance social well-being and are economically and environmentally sound. 2.3 Energy efficiency extends beyond the consumption of energy. It also includes spatial design (compact versus sprawl). A pedestrian or transit friendly built environment not only reduces the energy we consume to get to a destination, but also increases our physical activity levels by allowing us to travel using our "own steam" (walk, bike etc.) The health problems directly attributed to our sedentary and vehicular-reliant lifestyle are on the rise; obesity because of a lack of activity and asthma because of pollution. Internalizing the interrelationships of energy, the built environment and our health is a challenge we face. REPORT NO.: PSD-055-07 3.0 THE ISSUES 3.1 Climate Chanae PAGE 3 Climate change is a commonly accepted term that recognizes that an increase in the earth's average temperature will result in an overall change to the earth's climate and weather patterns. There is scientific evidence that increased greenhouse gases caused by human activities have accelerated the changes to the earth's climate. Human activities are affecting greenhouse gases by introducing new sources (burning of fossil fuels) as well as interfering with natural sinks (deforestation). The promotion of a low density, auto-intensive suburban lifestyle may prove costly in the long term: Urban sprawl coupled with energy-consuming practices (e.g. large outdoor parking lots, impermeable roofs, and increased greenhouse gas emissions) causes increased climate fluctuation and energy consumption. In turn, these have a negative affect on the economy and urban life style. The development of planning policies and regulations that recognize and address the interrelationship between built form, energy consumption and climate change is an appropriate and necessary response to maintain a viable community and economy. The use of energy is embedded in every aspect of community planning and it is now time to ensure that our use of energy is as efficient as possible. Planning for energy and resource use can help our community achieve long term sustainability. Challenges facing our communities include; · Urban development pressures to accommodate both new growth and still preserve existing neighbourhoods; · Rising costs of operations; and, · Increasing demands for public infrastructure and services. 3.2 Eneray Conservation and Renewable Sources In 2004, Canada drew over 80% of its energy needs from non-renewable resources, including nuclear and coal fired generating stations. As our non-renewable resources continue to be depleted we will need to balance our reliance on them with renewable energy resources (including solar, wind and hydro-electric generation). Not only have we increased our emissions of Greenhouse gases (burning of fossil fuels) but also have destroyed the natural sinks, through deforestation, that uptake these gases. In addition to promoting the use of renewable energy resources, we need to support cleaner sources of energy. 3.3 Public Heath and Community Planning Medical and scientific research over the last few years has resulted in an increased awareness of the links between health and our built environment. There are emerging partnerships between public health and land use planning with respect to improving air quality and the relationship between physical fitness and pedestrian friendly neighbourhoods. The increased levels of asthma and obesity in children are reaching REPORT NO.: PSD-055-07 PAGE 4 alarming rates. The design and functionality of our cities, to include pedestrian friendly amenities, and our concerted efforts to reduce our own emissions of greenhouse gases and s~og can go a long way to improve the health of ourselves, but more importantly, our children. 3.4 Why Should Clarinaton Be Involved Municipalities have a role in addressing climate change. Municipalities control the day to day activities that determine the amount of energy used and waste generated by their community - from land use and zoning decisions to control over building codes and licenses, infrastructure investments, municipal service delivery and management of parks and recreation areas. Up to half of Canada's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (350 million tonnes) are under the direct or indirect control or influence of municipal governments. Communities could cut GHG emissions by 20 to 50 million tonnes from municipal operations and community-wide initiatives with investments in environmental infrastructure and sustainable transportation infrastructure. Municipal governments can reduce greenhouse gas emissions through: · land-use, energy, and transportation planning; · infrastructure design; · green procurement; · building retrofits; · water conservation; · solid waste diversion; and · renewable energy. These actions can be incorporated into local initiatives to reduce associated global warming emissions. Local governments are uniquely positioned to influence citizen behaviors that directly affect climate change such as transportation options, energy consumption patterns and general consumer decisions. 4.0 RESIDENTIAL AND BUSINESS SURVEY ON ENERGY AND THE EVNIRONMENT Oraclepoll Research was commissioned jointly by the Municipality and the Clarington Board of Trade to undertake a community survey. The intent of the survey was to determine what the residential and business communities perceive as the challenges facing Clarington in the coming years as well as their perceptions on current green/environment issues. The results of the Survey will be analyzed in detail by the Advisory Committee. The surveys are attached for your information (Attachments 3 and 4). A summary has been provided below. REPORT NO.: PSD-055-07 PAGE 5 4.1 Residential Survey Results Of the 400 randomly selected voting age residents, it was almost a 50/50 split of Urban(55) and rural(43) representatives. The education level of the population survey was quite high. Almost 34% of the population had some University or had completed a University education. In combination with those who had some or had completed their College education, two-thirds of the population have a post-secondary education and could be considered well educated. One quarter of residents felt the most important issue facing Clarington at this time are urban growth/urban sprawl/overdevelopment. Other issues of concern included waste management roads, traffic, and taxes. When asked specifically about environmental issues such as recycling, energy conservation etc. they were very positive. Ninety four percent participate in recycling programs and a whopping 86% felt that Clarington should be a leader and become the greenest community in Ontario. Numbers were also respectable regarding awareness of both local and global issues. Only (44%) felt that Clarington was doing a good job at protecting the environment and promoting energy conservation. Residential - Rate your level agreement with the following statement Totally agree I actively partiCipate in recycling programs in my community. 94% Clarington should become a leader in environmental issues and become 86% the greenest community in Ontario. I am willing to pay more for products that are environmentally friendly. 67% I am aware of the environmental issues in my community. 55% Clarington is doing a good job at protecting the environment and promoting 43% energy conservation. I am aware of global warming and the limited sources of energy (oil, gas) 44% and the implications to our quality of life. Respondents were also asked to rank a number of environmental issues as to their level importance. The top five issues were: · clean air, · protecting water resources, . recycling, · energy conservation; and · buildings constructed to the highest efficiency standard and with environmentally friendly products. Other issues of concern include the preservation of agricultural lands, local produce, walking/bike lanes and trails, and public transit. With respect to energy efficiency, residents were asked how often they incorporate energy saving measures into their homes. Eighty seven percent of the residents noted REPORT NO.: PSD-055-07 PAGE 6 that in the purchase of a new home, energy efficiency and environmental design are very important factors. Importance of Energy Efficiency and Environmental Design Features for New Home Purchase " If you ~re planning the purchase of a home, how important IMJuld its energy efficiency and environmental design features (construction materials) factor in your decision making?" 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0% . Total Important . Neither Important nor Unimportant II Total Unimportant [J Not only were the residents supportive of conservation measures in their own homes, but 88% of them suggested they would support the Municipality investing in the energy efficiency and environmental design of Municipal buildings. Measures suggested include green roofs, and renewable sources of energy like solar and wind. 4.2 Business Survey Results Seventy five local businesses, all members of the Clarington Board of Trade, were surveyed. The majority were located in Bowmanville, followed by Newcastle, Courtice and Orono. Of these Businesses, twenty percent were retail, the same number commercial and a close third were personal services. A few questions, specific to having a business and potential improvements to the business community were asked, but the majority of questions were similar to the questions posed to the residential community. The business community, as well as the residents, were concerned about urban growth/development, but their top issue of concern, with marginally more support, is the need to attract commercial and industrial business. REPORT NO.: PSD-055-07 PAGE 7 The Business community felt that the most important issue facing Clarington as the population continues to grow was balancing infrastructure/services with growth (20%). Of next highest priority at 12% was balancing development/urban growth and urban sprawl followed closely by traffic related issues. The respondents were presented a number of environmental issues and were asked to comment on their agreement with a predetermined statement. Almost 80% of respondents agreed that Clarington should become a leader in the environmental community and become the greenest community in Ontario. Seventy percent admitted to actively participating in recycling programs. The majority are aware of global warming and issues related to non-renewable energy sources and a slight majority are willing to pay more for environmentally friendly products. Business - Rate your level agreement with the following statement Totally agree Clarington should become a leader in environmental issues and become the 79% greenest community in Ontario. This business actively participates in recycling programs in my community. 75% I am aware of global warming and the limited sources of energy (oil, gas) and 71% the implications to the future of my business. I am willing to pay more for products that are environmentally friendly. 55% I would support having a central resource center In Clarington to access 52% information on energy and environment programs. I'm aware of the environmental issues in my community. 43% Clarington is doing a good job at protecting the environment and promoting 29% the energy conservation. I am aware of the various types of energy conservation programs that are 23% currently available for businesses. In terms of energy efficiency, almost 70% of businesses reported taking energy efficiency measures, or considering them most of the time. In contrast 91 % of the same respondents support the Municipality investing more money to become energy efficient. When the business community was asked "Would you support or oppose the Municipality if it were to invest more funds to become more energy efficient and to include environmental design features in municipal buildings (green roofs, renewable sources of energy like solar, and wind)?" The following answers were provided. 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0% II Oppose _ Support _ Don't know REPORT NO.: PSD-055-07 PAGE 8 4.3 Summary It was the intent of the survey to discover the community's opinions with respect to environmental issues and to provide a baseline for any initiatives that may be undertaken through the Green Community Strategy. The surveys were quite successful in this regard. Most important, it was discovered that all are in support of the Municipality of Clarington become a leader in green initiatives. 5.0 CLARINGTON GREEN COMMUNITY STRATEGY 5.1 Clarinaton Green Community Strateay The Green Community Plan is to be a local action plan to address climate change and related environmental issues. The Strategy will include residential, commercial and industrial components. The residential component could include conservation programs and methods of subdivision and building design. The commercial component could include conservation awareness and education and green building standards such as green roofs. The industrial component could include conservation and incentives for implementing LEED Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design to certify buildings with sustainable features building standards. This type of advice from the Green Community Strategy will also be valuable as the Municipality continues to work on the development of the Energy Park. The Green Community Strategy will not only be a policy document but will be an educational tool. It will promote ways that each sector, can incorporate measures to become more energy efficient. Such methods include, improved insulation and/or windows to prevent heat loss, reduce energy used to heat/cool buildings, installation of low flow toilets, and greater participation in recycling/green bin programs. Other ways to educate the community could be on-line education campaigns, displays at community events, and information packages distributed by real estate agents to home/business purchasers. The Green Community Strategy Policies will also inform the upcoming review of Clarington's Official Plan Sustainability component. 5.2 Municipal and Private Sector Relationship It will take a concerted effort by elected officials, municipal representatives, builders, consumers and businesses, to formulate the Green Community Strategy. It will take participation and commitment from each of these groups to develop the Strategy. Yet most importantly it will require everyone involved to embrace and internalize the Strategy in order for it to translate into our lifestyle and our built form. To implement a local action plan through the Green Community Strategy we will need to employ a combination of initiatives that range from bold new innovations to small, but significant actions that will have benefits, if implemented effectively. To be effective REPORT NO.: PSD-055-07 PAGE 9 there will need to be a combined effort involving both the public and private sectors. The Planning Services Department and the Clarington Board of Trade are both committed to this initiative. 5.3 Clarinaton Green Community Advisory Committee The purpose of this Committee will be to develop a Community Strategy that will include local actions, policies, programs and projects for climate change, energy conservation, clean energy alternatives and green development and infrastructure. Education and awareness is of paramount importance to this Committee. The Terms of Reference for this Committee is attached for Council's endorsement (Attachment 2). It has been developed in conformity with the Council Approved Protocol for Appointed Advisory Committees and is support by the Executive of the Clarington Board of Trade. 5.4 Advisory Committee Workshops Municipal staff has been in contact with the Canadian Urban Institute (CUI) and other institutions such as the Conservation Council of Ontario and the Ontario Conservation Bureau with respect to the development of our Green Community Strategy. These organizations are currently undertaking applied research in environmental and energy sectors. Staff will confirm arrangements with these institutions to assist with the development of the Green Community Strategy. They will assist the committee with the analysis and development of background documents that could include; · An overview of the breadth and depth of current thinking with regard to greening of policy and practice from the perspective of both the public sector and private sector partners; · An inventory of noteworthy case studies across the Golden Horseshoe that demonstrate the range of options open to the Municipality · Recommendations regarding which best practices would be suitable for adoption or adaptation in Clarington; · Suggest which new strategic partnerships to develop. This document could then be utilized as an educational tool and form the basis for workshops. The workshops would be useful to increase awareness of the Strategy. One could be hosted for Clarington Staff and Council, the other for interested developers and stakeholders. The Green Community Strategy will also inform the upcoming review of Clarington's Official Plan. REPORT NO.: PSD-055-07 6.0 CONCLUSION PAGE 10 There is a strong interest by residents and business in seeing Clarington become a leader in environmental issues, indeed becoming the greenest community in Ontario. The establishment of the Green Community Advisory committee will assist the Municipality in developing a local action plan to define the role and actions of the Municipality and local businesses in addressing climate change and related environmental issues. Attachments: Attachment 1 - Government Initiatives on Climate Change and Energy Conservation Attachment 2 - Terms of Reference Attachment 3 - Business Survey Attachment 4 - Residential Survey Attachment 1 To Report PSD-055-07 GOVERNMENT ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES 1.0 FEDERAL INITIATIVES 1.1 The Federal Green Plan The Canadian Government recently released their Green Plan called "Turning the Corner: An Action Plan to Reduce Greenhouse Gases and Air Pollution". The intent of this Action Plan is to reduce greenhouse gases and air pollution. All major industrial sectors will have to respect the limits outlined in order to reduce greenhouse gases and air pollutants. There are a number of initiatives that will be developed under the Plan. 1.2 The National Round Table on the Environment and the Economy The National Round Table on the Environment and the Economy (NRTEE) is dedicated to exploring new opportunities to integrate environmental conservation and economic development, in order to sustain Canada's prosperity and secure its future, The mission of the NRTEE is to generate and promote innovative ways to advance Canada's environmental and economic interests in combination, rather than in isolation. In this capacity, it examines the environmental and economic implications of priority issues. Current projects focus on Energy and climate change (including advice on the Government of Canada's Clean Air Act) and Adaptation to Climate Change. 1.3 The Green Municipal Fund The Government of Canada has endowed the Federation of Canadian Municipalities with $550 million to establish and manage the Green Municipal Fund (GMF). As the only national fund that specifically addresses the needs of municipal governments, its broad range of financial products, resources, expertise and services have become the first stop for municipal governments wanting to pursue environmental infrastructure initiatives. The GMF supports municipal governments, and their partners, to improve to quality of our air, water and soil, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 1.4 Urban Archetypes Project The Canadian Urban Archetypes Project has been developed to understand the implications of different development patterns. This will support the principle of energy conservation under Clarington's Green Communities Strategy. The CANMET Energy Technology Centre of Natural Resources Canada, is developing a tool of best practices regarding urban form and its link to energy consumption. These Best Practices will assist Council, staff and developers in understanding the energy consumption of development. Clarington participates in the project with other municipalities in Canada like Lethbridge, Whitehorse, Ottawa, Waterloo and Markham. 2.0 PROVINCIAL INITIATIVES 2.1 There have been a number of recent Provincial initiatives that have solidified the Provinces position with respect to protecting the environment, managing growth and supporting long-term planning for alternative and renewable energy sources. These initiatives include amendments to the Planning Act (Bill 51), and the Places to Grow Act, 2005. In concert these initiatives will help local planning authorities better manage the built environment. Developments that are subject to these Acts will be more respectful to the environment, more energy efficient and will contribute to a healthier lifestyle. 2.2 Plannina Act The Planning and Conservation Land Statute Law Amendment Act, 2006 (Bill 51) provides municipalities with new design tools to support the environmental quality and health of communities by allowing municipalities to set energy efficiency and other environmental sustainability design requirements in buildings and even entire neighbourhoods. This will be an important tool for implementing local green strategies and building a 'conservation culture' in Clarington. 2.3 Places To Grow Plan The Places to Grow Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe was enacted by the Provincial Government and came into effect on June 16, 2006. In section 2.4 A Culture of Conservation the Growth Plan directs municipalities to: "develop and implement official plan policies and other strategies in support of the following conservation objectives: b) Energy conservation including- i) energy conservation for municipally owned facilities ii) identification of opportunities for alternative energy generation and distribution iii) energy demand management to reduce energy consumption iv) land use patterns and urban design standards that encourage and support energy-efficient buildings and opportunities for cogeneration" 3.0 REGIONAL INITIATIVES 3.1 The Durham Strateaic Eneray Alliance Clarington was a leader in the initiative to establish the Durham Strategic Energy Alliance (DSEA). The DSEA is a non-profit organization comprised of business, government and educational institutions working together for the advancement of energy initiatives. The DSEA has branded Durham Region as Ontario's Energy Capital. Its mission is to foster an energy-friendly environment in Durham Region that is a model for action in Ontario and Canada in the 21 st century. To accomplish this, DSEA is: . Facilitating initiatives that market Durham Region as an energy centre of excellence; . Educating the community at large on the benefits and opportunities of sustainable energy solutions; · Contributing to the development of human capital and innovation; · Engaging government, opinion leaders and key stakeholders on energy policy; · Initiating actions which contribute to public awareness; and, · Providing networking opportunities for committed organizations and individuals. Clarington Council appoints a representative to the Durham Strategic Energy Alliance. 3.2 Durham Reaion Roundtable on Climate Chanae In response to a council directive, Regional staff has prepared a Terms of Reference for the establishment of a Durham Region Roundtable on Climate Change (April 3, 2007). Its mandate is to provide advice regarding improvements the Region can take to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases, as well as playing an outreach and advocacy role. 3.3 Other Durham Reaion Initiatives · The Regional Official Plan has taken an environment first approach. The Goal of the Plan is to incorporate good community planning and design that enhances the Regional landscape and minimizes the pollution of air, water and land resources. A number of new policies support energy efficiency, improving air quality and the incremental reduction of overall greenhouse gas emissions. · Transportation initiatives such as Smart Commute, to encourage the reduction of single occupancy vehicle trips. · A joint study undertaken by the Region with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and Tribute Homes will measure the water, energy and greenhouse gas reductions derived from the installation of energy efficient measures in new homes. 4.0 CLARINGTON'S INITIATIVES 4.1 Clarinaton Official Plan Policies The Clarington Official Plan, was a pioneer at the time of adoption. It already embraces many of the ideas and principles behind a Green Community Strategy. Three principles that have provided direction for the policies of the Official Plan are: · Sustainable development, which includes thinking globally but acting locally, recognizing cumulative impacts so as to not exceed the carrying capacity of our air, land and water and energy conservation; · Healthy communities, including economic viability, community identity and urban design; and, · Growth Management which includes a compact urban form with higher and mixed densities, balanced growth and the efficient use of infrastructure. 4.2 Other Initiatives In addition to the Official Plan policies, there are a number of other energy and sustainability initiatives being undertaken in the Municipality that will contribute to the development of Clarington's Green Community Strategy. They include the following: · The Municipality is currently considering constructing the Newcastle Library as a green building under the LEED -Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design _ Green Building Rating System. In addition the Municipality is looking into an overall energy conservation program for its facilities. · The Municipality has designated lands for the Clarington Energy Business Park. The Energy Park is designed to attract the offices, research, and production centres of energy and environmental related businesses and industries. · Council has adopted a 50% reduction of the development charges once the building receives a LEED certification. This applies to all industrial lands. · The Community Improvement Plan for Newcastle will also be exploring energy conservation initiatives. A representative from Veridian is a member on the CIP committee. · Council is requiring new developments to prepare an Energy Management Plan outlining various means that the owner will implement to support energy conservation. · The agreement with the developers of the proposed Home Depot in the West Bowmanville Town Centre Area require the building to be LEED Certified. Staff is also promoting green development principles with the other developers of the West Bowmanville Town Centre in particular Wal-Mart. Attachment 2 To Report PSD-055-07 TERMS OF REFERENCE GREEN COMMUNITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE TO COUNCIL PURPOSE: To develop a community strategy that would include local actions, policies, programs, and projects for climate change, energy conservation, clean energy alternatives, and promoting more sustainable development practices. The Green Community Strategy will encompass local initiatives, private projects, partnerships between the public and private sectors as well as the business community. Some of these initiatives may range from support to the expansion of Darlington Nuclear Facility, engaging developers to include energy conservation initiatives in their projects, advising and promoting energy conservation to businesses to creating community awareness of energy conservation. MANDATE: The mandate of the Green Community Advisory Committee is to prepare a Green Community Strategy. The Green Community Strategy will focus on the community's local response to the interrelations among energy, health, climate change and development. In preparing the Green Community Strategy, the advisory committee will, on behalf of Council, consult with the public through focus groups, briefs and public meetings. The will also seek partnerships with other levels of government, private sector and non-profit groups, The Municipality of Clarington has established a staff Committee on energy management and conservation, While the Green Community Advisory Committee may include some recommendations on Municipal operations, the focus of the Advisory committee's work is to be on broader community issues. OBJECTIVES: 1) To undertake research in the following areas: a) Energy Conservation; b) Clean energy alternatives and technologies; c) Local response to Climate Change; d) Alternative development patterns for energy conservation and sustainable development including mixed densities, a mix of use and building types; and, e) Planning and technical innovation for sustainable development such as green infrastructure and low impact development. 2) On behalf of Council, to consult with the public through focus groups briefs and public meetings; 3) To prepare the Clarington Green Community Strategy; 4) To organize educational events to implement the Green Community Strategy; 5) In addition, the Committee will provide input to Municipality's Official Plan Review- Sustainable Development Component. COMMITTEE COMPOSITION: The GCAC shall consist of 13 voluntary members who are appointed by Council for a term of four (4) years, to coincide with the term of Council. A majority of membership, nine (9) shall constitute a quorum, The Advisory Committee will consist of the following representatives · Mayor and a Member of Council (2) · Ontario Power Generation (1) · Durham Strategic Energy Alliance (1) · Veridian (1) · CBOT Board Member (1) · University of Ontario Institute of Technology (1) · Youth (1) · Community at large (4) · Developer - Durham Chapter of the Greater Toronto Home Builders Association - Urban Development Institution (GTHBA-UDI) (1) The Membership shall possess expertise and willingness to devote the necessary time to the Committee. Openings for community membership shall be publicly advertised and all residents of the Municipality of Clarington may apply. Applicants will submit applications to the Municipality of Clarington Planning Services Department. Members will be formally appointed by Municipal Council. The Mayor shall sit as the interim Chair. The GCAC will select a Chair and a Vice-Chair from among its membership. The Chair shall provide leadership to the GCAC, ensure that it carries out its mandate, and act as the primary liaison between the GCAC and Staff. A staff member shall act as recording secretary. Duties of the recording secretary shall include the taking of meeting minutes and providing these minutes to the Clerk for Council's information. Regarding conflicts of interest, Members of the Committee must abide by the Municipal Conflict of I nterest Act Green Community Strategy Coordinators The coordinators for the Community Advisory Committee will be: · Carlos Salazar - Manager of Community Planning and Design · Suzanne McCrimmon- Clarington Board of Trade · Jennifer Cooke, Manager, Communications and Tourism · Representative from power utility REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS/DECISION MAKING: · The Committee will be established as an Advisory Committee of Council under Councils' Protocol for Advisory Committees, Committee members will report to Council through the Committee's Chair. · Decisions will be reached by consensus where appropriate, or through a simple majority vote. · Committee members will report, to their respective organizations, decisions reached by the Committee. · Report to Council on semi-annual basis. FREQUENCY OF MEETINGS: · There will be a minimum of one meeting per month of the Committee, supplemented as required by conference etc. · The meetings will be held at the Clarington Municipal Administrative Centre, SECRETARIAT COSTS: · The Secretariat function of the Committee will be provided mainly by the Planning Services Department, the Communications Branch of the Municipality, and the Clarington Board of Trade. · The operating costs for the first two years of the Committee will be established through contributions from the Municipality, The CBOT, and may include other community partners. · The Advisory Committee will be allowed to seek other sources of funding and grants for specific initiatives/programs. WORKING GROUPS: · The GCAC may establish Working Groups as needed to further study an issue and to make recommendations on that issue to the GCAC. Working groups will have an ad hoc status with a clear mandate and time frame. · Each Working Group will be chaired by a Committee member, as selected by the Committee and with the agreement of the member. A member of the working group will be responsible for generation of minutes. · The Working Groups will be comprised of at least one staff member and may have representation from any other interested parties or experts as the Committee may require, · The Municipality and the CBOT will provide meeting coordination and information distribution support to Working Groups, as appropriate. · The Committee may establish linkages to other working groups or committees that function on a more permanent basis. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: All Committee meetings are open to the public. Member of the public are not permitted to participate in Committee discussions but may appear as a delegation before the Committee. Delegations shall be for a maximum of 10 minutes. Those wishing to appear as a delegation at a Committee meeting must so advise the staff liaison a minimum of five working days prior to the meeting. Attachment No 3 To Report PSD-055-07 Clarington Green Community Strategy: Business Report Prepared for: Economic Development Office Clarington Board of Trade And The Community Planning and Design Branch Planning Services Department CJg[illglon Prepared by: I) oraclepell R I . EAR C H Montreal Toronto Sudbury Decem ber 2006 Table o f Contents Methodology & Logistics 15 Executive Summary 16 Top of Mind Issues 16 Benefits 17 Improvements 18 Saving Energy 22 Results by Question 24 Methodology & Logistics Study Sample · A total of 75 randomly selected business owners/managers from the Municipality of Clarington were interviewed by telephone between the days of December 15t to December 10th 2006. Logistics · Initial calls were made between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 6:00 p,m. SUbsequent callbacks of no- answers and busy numbers were made on a (staggered) daily rotating basis up to 7 times until contact was made. In addition, telephone interview appointments were attempted with those respondents unable to complete the survey at the time of contact. If no contact was made at a number after the seventh attempt, the number was discarded. Survey Method · The survey was conducted using computer-assisted techniques of telephone interviewing (CATI) and random number selection. A total of 20% of all interviews were monitored and the management of OraclepolI Research supervised 100%. Confidence · The margin of error for the residential sample is +/- 11 %, 19/20 times. Executive Summary Top of Mind Issues Respondents were first asked what they considered to be the most important issue facing Clarington at this time, Top Issues Attracting commercial/industrial business 19% Overdevelopment / Urban growth / Urban sprawl 15% Don't know 12% Planning for the future / appropriate building 9% Taxes 5% Support for local business 5% Traffic 4% Environment / Green space 4% Parking 4% Government support / involvement 3% Education / lack of schools 1% There was a split among businesses surveyed between those that favor attracting new business to the area (19%) and those that feel that there has been too much growth (15%). Other issues included having proper planning for the future (9%), concern over taxes (5%) and having more support for local businesses. Benefits Respondents were asked what they considered to be the top benefit of operating a business in Clarington. Top Benefits The community / the people 25% The growth / the development 20% Don't know 15% Proximity to Toronto 9% Small town feel 8% Location 7% Proximity to amenities / services 5% Quality of life / lifestyle 4% Not having to go to Toronto 3% Cost of living 1% Lack of big box stores 1% Good labour pool 1% One quarter (25%) of respondents named the people and the community as being the biggest benefit, followed by 20% that stated the areas growth and development, 9% the proximity to Toronto, 8% the small town atmosphere and 7% its location, Improvements Businesses were questioned as to what improvements could be made to make Clarington a more business friendly environment. Top Improvements Don 't know 19% Less municipal restrictions / red tape 12% Promotion of business in the community 9% Improvement of the downtown core 8% Roads / maintenance / signage 8% Planning department improvements / more business friendly 7% Lower taxes 5% Support local/small business 5% Reduce development fees 4% Provide networking opportunities 4% Fund / promote arts & culture 4% Traffic flow 3% A total of 19% were unable to name an improvement that could make Clarington more business friendly, but of those with an opinion 12% named less red tape, 9% the promotion of the community, 8% improvements to the downtown, 8% improved roads and 7% having the planning department being more business friendly, Top of Mind Challenges Respondents were also asked what they felt was the most important challenge facing Clarington as its population continues to grow. Challenges Balance infrastructure! services and growth 20% Traffic 12% Balancing development! urban growth! urban sprawl 8% Balance of residential and commercial 8% Roads! maintenance! widen roads 7% Preserving green space 7% Employment 5% Attracting commercial! industrial business 5% Taxes 4% Lack of business development 4% Don't know 4% Having infrastructure needs and municipal services keep up with growth in the community was named by 20% of Clarington businesses, while 12% said resolving traffic issues and 8% cited each of having a balanced approach to development while controlling sprawl as well as having a mix of residential and commercial development. Environment Issues Respondents were asked to rate their level of agreement with each of the following statements related to environmental issues. Clarington should become a leader in environmental issues and become the 79% 12% 9% 0% reenest communit in Ontario, This business actively participates in 75% 13% 11% 1% recycling programs in my community. I am aware of global warming and the limited sources of energy (oil, gas) and the 71% 20% 9% 0% im lications to the future of m business, I am willing to pay more for products that are 55% 35% 11% 0% environmentally friendly. I would support having a central resource center In Clarington to access information on 52% 24% 24% 0% ener and environment ro rams, I'm aware of the environmental issues in my 43% 39% 19% 0% community. Clarington is doing a good job at protecting the environment and promoting the energy 29% 47% 15% 9% conservation, I am aware of the various types of energy conservation programs that are currently 23% 43% 33% 1% available for businesses. A total of 75% of Clarington businesses surveyed actively participate in recycling programs. There was strong buy-in from almost eight in ten (79%) businesses with respect to having Clarington being a leader on environmental issues in Ontario and 71 % claim to be aware of global warming and its implications to their future. A small majority would be willing to pay more for environmentally friendly products and would support having a resource centre to access information on energy and environmental programs. However, there is low awareness of conservation programs available and low agreement that Clarington is doing a good job at protecting the environment. Importance of Environment Issues Respondents were then asked to rate the level of importance of each of the following environmental issues. Ensuring clean air 99% 1% 0% 0% The protection of ground water sources (including rivers, streams 93% 5% 1% 0% etc Ensuring buildings (e.g. commercial, residential, industrial, and municipal) are constructed with environmentally 91% 5% 4% 0% friendly materials and built with the hi hest ener efficienc standards Having public transit within Clarington and to other parts of the 90% 5% 4% 0% Re ion Having recycling programs 87% 13% 0% 0% Buying locally grown foods and 84% 15% 1% 0% products Having walking and bike lanes / trails 83% 13% 4% 0% Preserving agricultural lands in our 83% 11% 7% 0% community from development A high level of importance was placed on all areas and especially for ensuring clean air. Saving Energy Businesses were asked about how often they take energy efficiency measures or ways of saving energy into consideration. " How often would you say that you have taken energy efficiency measures or ways of saving energy into consideration at your business to reduce energy usage?" 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0% o Some of the time . Most of the time . Almost never Almost seven in ten businesses or 68% take energy conservation measures or ways of saving energy into consideration most of the time, 27% some of the time while a low 5% said that they almost never take them into consideration. Investment of Funds Businesses were asked about their support or opposition to the following. 100% " Would you support or oppose the municipality if it were to invest more funds to become more energy efficient and to include environmental design features in municipal buildings (green roofs, renewable sources of energy like solar, and wind)??" 80% 60% 40% 20% 0% o Oppose . Support . Don't know A strong 91 % of Clarington businesses surveyed would support the Municipality if it were to invest more money to become more energy efficient. Results by Question Q1. What in your opinion is the most important issue facing Clarington at this time? Valid Percent Valid Over development! urban growth! urban sprawl 26.5 Don't know 18,0 Roads! maintenance 6,5 Waste management 6.5 Traffic 5.5 Taxes 5,5 Attracting commercial! industrial business 4.0 Nuclear plant 3.5 Lack of retailers! big box stores 3.5 Environment 3.0 Preserving green space 3.0 Community resources and programs 2.0 Education !Iack of schools 1.5 Infrastructure I services 1,5 Government (municipal, provinicial, federal) 1.5 Energy demands 1.5 Transportation 1,0 Pollution 1.0 Employment 1.0 Recreational facilities 1,0 Social policies 1.0 Crime 1,0 Water supply and treaments .5 Total 100.0 Q2. What do you feel is the most important challenge facing Clarington as its population continues to grow? Valid Percent Valid Planning/Balanced development/Growth / urban sprawl 14.5 Traffic congestion 11.0 Infrastructure / services 9.0 Education / lack of schools 8,5 Roads / maintenance 7.5 Don't know 6.5 Transportation 5.5 Employment 5,5 Housing (affordable) 4.5 Lack of retailers / big box stores 4.0 Agricultural preservation 4.0 Attracting commercial/industrial business 3.5 Preserving green space 3,0 Community resources and programs 2.0 Taxes 1.5 Waste management 1,5 Recreational facilities 1,5 Energy demands 1.5 Keeping the small community feeling 1,5 Government (municipal, provinicial, federal) 1,0 Shortages of doctors 1.0 Pollution ,5 Crime .5 The downtown core .5 Total 100,0 Valid Percent Valid Don't know 30.0 Planning / long range planning 11,5 Better roads / Expanded & widened road 8,5 More public transportation available 6.5 Attract larger businesses / industry to area 5,5 Selective / planned growth 5.0 Higher density residential/less residential 5.0 Build more schools 4.0 Provide more services / policing, fire department etc 3.5 More funding / use funds more effectively 3,5 Preserve agricultural lands / green spaces 3.5 Build more stores / malls 3.0 Get public opinion / meeting / polls 2.0 Put more into recycling / waste management 2.0 Freeze new growth 1.5 Offer more community services / programs / facilities 1.5 Recruit / retain doctors 1.5 Encourage more growth 1.5 Build a new nuclear plant .5 Total 100.0 Q3. How should the Municipality deal with this growth related challenge? Please rate your level of agreement with each of the following statements using a scale from one strongly disagree to five strongly agree. Q4. I am aware of the environmental issues in my community. Percent Valid Strongly disagree 3.5 Disagree 9.0 Neither agree nor disagree 32.5 Agree 22,5 Strongly agree 32,0 Don't know .5 Total 100.0 QS. I am aware of global warming and the limited sources of energy (oil, gas) and the implications to our quality of life. Percent Valid Strongly disagree ,S Disagree 1,S Neither agree nor disagree 14,0 Agree 29.S Strongly agree S4,S Total 100,0 Q6. I actively participate in recycling programs in my community. Percent Valid Strongly disagree 1.S Disagree ,S Neither agree nor disagree 4,0 Agree 17,0 Strongly agree 77.0 Total 100.0 Q7. Clarington should become a leader in environmental issues and become the greenest community in Ontario. Percent Valid Strongly disagree 1.0 Disagree 1,0 Neither agree nor disagree 12,0 Agree 22,0 Strongly agree 63.5 Don't know ,5 Total 100,0 QS. I am willing to pay more for products that are environmentally friendly. Percent Valid Strongly disagree 7,S Disagree 5,5 Neither agree nor disagree 20,5 Ag ree 35,0 Strongly agree 31,5 Total 100,0 Q9. Clarington is doing a good job at protecting the environment and promoting energy conservation. Percent Valid Strongly disagree 4,0 Disagree 16,0 Neither agree nor disagree 32,5 Agree 30,5 Strongly agree 12,0 Don't know 5.0 Total 100.0 As a resident of Clarington how important, is each of the following to you? Please use a scale from one not at all important to five very important. Q10a. Having recycling programs Percent Valid Not at all important .5 Neither important nor not important 4.0 Important 9.5 Very important 86,0 Total 100,0 Q10b. Having energy conservation programs. Percent Valid Not at all important 1,0 Not important .5 Neither important nor not important 4.5 Important 17.5 Very important 76.5 Total 100.0 Q11. The protection of ground water sources (including rivers, streams etc). Percent Valid Not at all important .5 Not important 1.0 Neither important nor not important 2.0 Important 8,5 Very important 87,5 Don't know ,5 Total 100.0 Q12. Having walking and cycle/bike lanes/trails. Percent Valid Not at all important 2.5 Not important 4.0 Neither important nor not important 12.0 Important 28.0 Very important 53,5 Total 100.0 Q13. Ensuring clean air. Percent Valid Not important .5 Neither important nor not important 1.0 Important 10.5 Very important 87,5 Don't know .5 Total 100.0 Q14. Preserving agricultural land. Percent Valid Not at all important 1,0 Neither important nor not important 7,5 Important 17.5 Very important 73.5 Don't know ,5 Total 100,0 Q15. Buying locally grown foods and products. Percent Valid Not at all important 1.5 Not important ,5 Neither important nor not important 10,0 Important 25.5 Very important 62.5 Total 100,0 Q16. Ensuring buildings (e.g. commercial, residential, industrial, and municipal) are constructed with environmentally friendly materials and are built to the highest energy efficiency standards. Percent Valid Not at all important .5 Not important 1,0 Neither important nor not important 6,0 Important 23,5 Very important 68.5 Don't know .5 Total 100,0 Q17. Having public transit within Clarington and to other parts of the Region. Percent Valid Not at all important 3,0 Not important 3.5 Neither important nor not important 13,0 Important 21,5 Very important 57.5 Don't know 1.5 Total 100.0 Q18. Banning the use of pesticides for cosmetic purposes. Percent Valid Not at all important 3,5 Not important 4,5 Neither important nor not important 15,5 Important 21.0 Very important 54,5 Don't know 1.0 Total 100,0 Q19. How often would you say that you have taken energy efficiency measures or ways of saving energy into consideration at your home to reduce energy usage? Percent Valid Some of the time 18.5 Most of the time 79.5 Almost never 2.0 Total 100.0 Q20. If you were planning the purchase of a home, how important would its energy efficiency and environmental design features (construction materials) factor in your decision making? Percent Valid Not at all important 2.0 Not important 1,5 Neither important nor not important 8.5 Important 43.0 Very important 43,5 Don't know 1,5 Total 100,0 Q21. Would you support or oppose the municipality if it were to invest more funds to become more energy efficient and to include environmental design features in municipal buildings (green roofs, renewable sources of energy like solar, and wind)? Percent Valid Oppose 5,0 Support 88.0 Don't know 7,0 Total 100.0 We are nearing the end of our survey and we would just like to remind you that all information will remain confidential and will be used for statistical purposes only. Q22. Do you consider yourself a resident of a rural or urban community? Percent Valid Rural 43.0 Urban 55.5 Don't know I refused 1.5 Total 100,0 Q23. In total, how many people live at this residence? Percent Valid 1 10.5 2 31.0 3 19.0 4 26.0 5 13,0 Don't know I refused .5 Total 100,0 Q24. What is the highest level of education that you have received? Percent Valid Some high school 4.5 Completed high school 25,0 Some college 5.0 Completed college 27.5 Some university 5.0 Completed university 28.5 Vocational school 1.5 Primary school 1,5 Don't know I refused 1,5 Total 100.0 Q25. Which of the following age groups may I place you in? Percent Valid 18-24 2.5 25-34 10.5 35-44 28,0 45-54 29.5 55-64 13.5 65 and over 15,5 Don't know / refused ,5 Total 100.0 Q26. What is your combined family income? Percent Valid Less than $25,000 5,0 $25,000 to $34,999 6.0 $35,000 to $44,999 3,5 $45,000 to $54,999 8.0 $55,000 to $74,999 13,0 $75,000 to $99,999 18.5 $100,000 or more 17.5 Don't know / refused 28.5 Total 100.0 Q27. What type of dwelling do you live in? Percent Valid Detached, single-family home 84,5 A Condominium 2.0 Townhouse, Row House, Terrace House 7.5 Semi-detached, Duplex 4,5 Apartment in a house or building 1.0 Don't know/Refused .5 Total 100.0 Q28. Do you own or rent? Percent Valid Own 92,5 Rent 6,0 Don't know/refused 1,5 Total 100.0 ASKED ONLY TO RENTERS Q29. Do you directly pay for your own energy use? Percent Valid Yes 41.7 No 58,3 Total 100,0 ASK ONLY TO HOMEOWNERS Q30. What is the age of your home? Percent Valid Under 1 year 3.2 1 - 5 years 12.8 More than 5 years 83.0 Don't know / refused 1.1 Total 100.0 Q31. Where/what area do you live in, in Clarington? Percent Valid Bowmanville 51.0 Courtice 23.0 Orono 2.0 Newcastle 12.5 Rural 10,5 Don't know / refused 1.0 Total 100,0 Q32. Gender Percent Valid Male 44,0 Female 56,0 Total 100,0 Saving Energy Residents were asked about how often they take energy efficiency measures or ways of saving energy into consideration at their home. " How often would you say that you have taken energy efficiency measures or ways of saving energy into consideration at your home to reduce energy usage? " 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0% o Some of the time . Most of the time .Almost never Eight in ten residents of Clarington take energy conservation measures or ways of saving energy into consideration most of the time, 18% some of the time while only 2% said that the almost never take them into consideration. / Home Purchase Residents were asked about the importance of home energy efficiency and environmental design features. 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0% " If you were planning the purchase of a home, how important would its energy efficiency and environmental design features (construction materials) factor in your decision making?" ~ · Total Important rn Neither Important nor Unimportant 0 Total Unimportant 0 Don't know 87% of respondents stated that energy efficiency and environmental design features would play an important (43%) or very important (44%) factor in their decision making process if they were in the market for a new home. Investment of Funds Residents were asked about their support or opposition to the following. 100% " Would you support or oppose the municipality if it were to invest more funds to become more energy efficient and to include environmental design features in municipal buildings (green roofs, renewable sources of energy like solar, and wind)??" 80% 60% 40% 20% 0% o Oppose . Support . Don't know An 88% majority would support the Municipality if it were to invest more money to become more energy efficient. Results by Question Q1. From the perspective of your business, what in your opinion is the most important issue facing Clarington at this time? Valid Percent Valid Attracting commercial/industrial business 18,7 Over development / Urban growth / Urban sprawl 14.7 Don't know 12,0 Planning for the future / appropriate building 9,3 Taxes 6,7 Support for small businesses 5.3 Local economic development/job creation 5,3 Balance of infrastructure / services 5,3 Traffic 4.0 Environment / Green space 4.0 Parking 4.0 Nuclear plant 2,7 Government involvement 2,7 Education / lack of schools 1.3 Roads / maintenance 1.3 Public opinion, meetings and input 1,3 Shortages of physicians 1.3 Total 100.0 Q1 b. From your business perspective, what would you consider the top benefit of operating a business in Clarington? Valid Percent Valid The community / the people 25,3 The growth / the development 20,0 Don't know 14,7 Proximity to Toronto 9,3 Small town feel 8.0 Location 6,7 Proximity to amenities / services 5,3 Quality of life / lifestyle 4.0 Not having to go to Toronto 2,7 Cost of living 1.3 Lack of big box stores 1.3 Good labour pool 1,3 Total 100.0 Q1c. From a business perspective, what improvement could be made in Clarington to make or create a better business friendly environment? Valid Percent Valid Don't know 18,7 Less municipal restrictions/red tape 12,0 Promotion of the business in the community 9.3 Improvement of downtown core 8,0 Roads / maintenance / signage 8.0 Planning department improvements/more business friendly 6,7 Lower taxes 5.3 Support local/small business 5,3 Reduce development fees 4.0 Provide networking opportunties 4.0 Fund / promote the cultural sector more 4.0 Traffic flow 2.7 Better communication / technology 2,7 Better transportation (buses etc) 2.7 Better training of work force 2.7 Preserve the environment 2,7 Need more doctors 1.3 Total 100,0 Q2. What do you feel is the most important challenge facing Clarington as its population continues to grow? Valid Percent Valid Balance infrastructure / services and growth 21,3 Planning/Balancing development/Growth /Sprawl 13,3 Traffic 12,0 Balance of residential and commercial 8.0 Roads / maintenance / widen roads 6,7 Preserving green space 6,7 Employment 5.3 Attracting commercial/industrial business 5.3 Lack of business development 5.3 Taxes 4.0 Don't know 4.0 Transportation 2.7 Education / lack of schools 1.3 Health services 1.3 Crime 1.3 Agricultural preservation 1,3 Total 100.0 Q3. What suggestion do you have to assist the Municipality deal with this growth related challenge? o Don't know (17) o Put more responsibility on the Clarington region and less on funding from federal government o Inner ring and outer rings of the community o Encourage more corporations to locate in this region o Look at the way the streets are going towards the highways, have the downtown grow a little more out o A straight forward planning decision as to where things are going in the future o Having meetings with a mixture of business, for team-management meetings so the town can get everyone's perspective o More access to transit in the smaller communities with smaller buses to reduce costs o Attract more business o Invest a lot of money in economic development o We attract business into Clarington, but the bureaucracy puts up roadblocks o Contact other business to join the community o Traffic lighting system for pedestrians o They have to be both more firm and demanding of developers o Lock things in, so that it can't be negotiated every year, so that a greenbelt is a greenbelt for a designated period of time o Not to hold too much back, because you can't stop it o Have 2 one-way highways, like they do in Oshawa o Infrastructure should be in place before the growth, think before you build o Restriction on the growth where building new homes o Reduce the tax for small town business o When builders are planning, leave some original trees and park spaces o Setting up a committee to review plans o All businesses have a duty or obligation to assist the municipality any way they can o Better effort at welcoming new businesses o Allow the planning department more freedom/authority to impose imagination on developers o Lower taxes o Starting a mini mall o Use the board of trade and business people to drive that function o Look at what is being built out there in regards to residential (may not be needed) o More focus on the people and business already there o Make municipality planning and economic development business friendly o For the government not be an obstacle to development o Advertise to the new people moving into the community, small business is the key the growth in the area o Concentrate to bring in new business o Better signs o Be more proactive o To keep going o Less focus on residential expansion more on industrial and commercial o Developing a long term plan (10 years) instead of a four year plan o Inspire outsourcing of new corporations to come to town o Make it easier for businesses to set up shop o Bicycle paths to connect the whole town o More information in the newspapers o Tighten up spending until they get a better handle on what they are doing o We need somebody to pin point the issues, and people will follow a good leader o Better policing o It's up to them to designate an area and develop it o Ensuring that the growth of Clarington and the infrastructure are working together o Need more commercial base, encourage new business development o New roads o Council that give us the chance to communication, council should drop in talk to the people o Having the planning department more user friendly o Hire transportation consultants, highway 57 needs to be handled more efficiently o Put some more doctors on o Keep having big events like midnight madness in the downtown o Need more employment closer to home o Long term planning o Keep the box store away o Planning and development in the area, surveying and speaking to local businesses to input on how to better the situation Q4. What environmental issue do you feel is the most important one facing Clarington at this time? Percent Valid Don't know 22,7 Preserving green space 17,3 Air pollution / quality 9,3 Garbage / littering 9.3 Recycling 8,0 Nuclear development 8,0 Pollution (general) 5,3 Pollution caused by 8t Mary's Cement plant 5,3 Waste management / disposal 4,0 Water pOllution / quality 4,0 Conservation / alternative methods 4,0 Protection of the environment 1,3 Human fertilizer being sold to local farmers 1,3 Total 100,0 Please rate your level of agreement with each of the following statements using a scale from one strongly disagree to five strongly agree. Q5a. I'm aware of the environmental issues in my community. Percent Valid Strongly disagree 8,0 Disagree 10,7 Neither agree nor disagree 38,7 Agree 21,3 Strongly agree 21,3 Total 100,0 Q5b. I am aware of global warming and the limited sources of energy (oil, gas) and the implications to the future of my business. Percent Valid Strongly disagree 1.3 Disagree 8.0 Neither agree nor disagree 20.0 Agree 24,0 Strongly agree 46,7 Total 100,0 Q6. This business actively participates in recycling programs in my community. Percent Valid Strongly disagree 6.7 Disagree 4,0 Neither agree nor disagree 13.3 Agree 20,0 Strongly agree 54.7 Don't know 1,3 Total 100,0 Q7. Clarington should become a leader in environmental issues and become the greenest community in Ontario. Percent Valid Strongly disagree 2,7 Disagree 6,7 Neither agree nor disagree 12,0 Agree 20,0 Strongly agree 58,? Total 100.0 Q8. I am willing to pay more for products that are environmentally friendly. Percent Valid Strongly disagree 8.0 Disagree 2.7 Neither agree nor disagree 34.7 Agree 29.3 Strongly agree 25.3 Total 100,0 Q9. Clarington is doing a good job at protecting the environment and promoting the energy conservation. Percent Valid Strongly disagree 8.0 Disagree 6,7 Neither agree nor disagree 46,7 Ag ree 17,3 Strongly agree 12,0 Don't know 9.3 Total 100,0 Q10. I am aware of the various types of energy conservation programs that are currently available for businesses. Percent Valid Strongly disagree 20,0 Disagree 13,3 Neither agree nor disagree 42,7 Agree 17,3 Strongly agree 5,3 Don't know 1,3 Total 100.0 Q11. I would support having a central resource center In Clarington to access information on energy and environment programs. Percent Valid Strongly disagree 6.7 Disagree 17,3 Neither agree nor disagree 24.0 Agree 26,7 Strongly agree 25.3 Total 100,0 From the perspective of your business (including your employees and yourself) of Clarington how important are each of the following to you? Please use a scale from one not at all important to five very important. Q12. Having recycling programs. Percent Valid Neither important nor not important 13,3 Important 9.3 Very important 77,3 Total 100,0 Q13. The protection of ground water sources (including rivers, streams etc). Percent Valid Not important 1,3 Neither important nor not important 5,3 Important 13.3 Very important 80.0 Total 100,0 Q14. Having walking and bike lanes I trails. Percent Valid Not important 4,0 Neither important nor not important 13,3 Important 26.7 Very important 56.0 Total 100.0 Q15. Ensuring clean air. Percent Valid Neither important nor not 1.3 important Important 8,0 Very important 90.7 Total 100.0 Q16. Preserving agricultural lands in our community from development. Percent Valid Not at all important 2,7 Not important 4,0 Neither important nor not important 10,7 Important 20,0 Very important 62,7 Total 100.0 Q17. Buying locally grown foods and products. Percent Valid Not important 1.3 Neither important nor not important 14.7 Important 22,7 Very important 61.3 Total 100,0 Q18. Ensuring buildings (e.g. commercial, residential, industrial, and municipal) are constructed with environmentally friendly materials and built with the highest energy efficiency standards. Percent Valid Not at all important 1,3 Not important 2,7 Neither important nor not important 5,3 Important 34,7 Very important 56,0 Total 100,0 Q19. Having public transit within Clarington and to other parts of the Region. Percent Valid Not at all important 1,3 Not important 2,7 Neither important nor not important 5.3 Important 25,3 Very important 65,3 Total 100,0 Q21. If you were planning to select a new location for your business, how important would its energy efficiency and other environmental features (environmentally friendly construction materials) factor in your decision making? Percent Valid Not at all important 5.3 Not important 8,0 Neither important nor not important 26,7 Important 32.0 Very important 25.3 Don't know 2.7 Total 100,0 Q20. How often would you say that you have taken energy efficiency or ways of saving energy into consideration at your business to reduce energy usage? Percent Valid Some of the time 26.7 Most of the time 68.0 Almost never 5.3 Total 100,0 Q22. Would you support or oppose the municipality if it were to invest more funds to become more energy efficient and to include environmental design features in municipal buildings (green roofs, renewable source of energy solar, wind)? Percent Valid Support 90.7 Oppose 6.7 Don't know 2,7 Total 100.0 We are nearing the end of our survey and we would just like to remind you that all information will remain confidential and will be used for statistical purposes only. Q23. What is the main activity of this business at this location? Percent Valid Other retail business 18,7 Commercial services 18.7 Personal services 14.7 Food stores, restaurants, bars 9,3 Finance 6.7 Movies, entertainment, museums and gardens 6.7 Insurance, real estate and investment trusts 5.3 Hotel, boarding houses, camps and other dwellings 4,0 Other manufacturing industries 2.7 Electricity, gas and sanitary services 2,7 Automobile dealerships and gas stations 2.7 Repairs 2,7 Construction 1.3 Agriculture and fisheries 1,3 Communications 1.3 Social And Human Service Organizations 1.3 Total 100.0 Q24. In total, how many employees are there at this location? Percent Valid 1 to 4 44,0 5 to 9 21,3 1 0 to 19 13,3 20 to 49 9,3 50 to 99 6.7 100 to 249 1,3 500 employees or more 2,7 DNK/DNA 1,3 Total 100,0 Q25. What is your job description? Percent Valid Owner I Partner 44.0 President I Vice-president 21.3 Manager I Assistant Manager 13.3 Director I Project Manager I Analyst I Consultant 6,7 Administrator I Department Head I General Manager 2,7 Appraiser I Sales Agent 2,7 Coordinator I Distributor 1.3 Accountant I Controller I Treasurer 1.3 Architect 1.3 Hair-stylist 1,3 Lawyer 1,3 Realtor 1.3 Signs designer 1.3 Total 100,0 Q26. Where is your business located? Percent Valid Bowmanville 62.7 Courtice 8.0 Orono 8.0 Newcastle 14,7 Rural 6,7 Total 100.0 Q27.Gender Percent Valid Male 58.7 Female 41.3 Total 100.0 Attachment No.4 To Report PSD-055-07 Clarington Green Community Strategy: Residential Report Prepared for: Economic Development Office Clarington Board of Trade And The Community Planning and Design Branch Planning Services Department Cl!J!JHglon Prepared by: I) oraclepell R I I I ARC H Montreol Toronto Sudbury Decem ber 2006 Table of Contents Methodology & Log st cs Top of Mind Issues Saving Energy Home Purchase Investment of Funds Results by Quest on 38 39 44 45 46 47 Methodology & Logistics Study Sample · A total of 400 randomly selected voting age residents of the Municipality of Clarington 18 years of age and older were interviewed by telephone between the days of December 15t to December 10th 2006. Logistics · Initial calls were made between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Subsequent callbacks of no- answers and busy numbers were made on a (staggered) daily rotating basis up to 7 times (from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.) until contact was made. In addition, telephone interview appointments were attempted with those respondents unable to complete the survey at the time of contact. If no contact was made at a number after the fifth attempt, the number was discarded. Survey Method · The survey was conducted using computer-assisted techniques of telephone interviewing (CA TI) and random number selection. A total of 20% of all interviews were monitored and the management of Oraclepoll Research supervised 100%. Confidence · The margin of error for the residential sample is +/- 4.9%, 19/20 times. Executive Summary Top of Mind Issues Respondents were first asked what they considered to be the most important issue facing Clarington at this time, Top Issues 1. Over development I urban growth I urban sprawl 27% Don't know 18% 2. Waste management 7% 3. Roads I maintenance 7% 4. Traffic 6% 5, Taxes 6% 6. Nuclear plant 4% 7. Lack of retailers I big box stores 4% 8, Attracting commercial I industrial business 4% 9. Environment 3% 10. Preserving green space 3% Issues related to expansion, growth and sprawl were most cited by 27% of Clarington residents, while other development related themes included waste management (7%), roads (7%) and traffic (7%). Top of Mind Challenges Respondents were also asked what they felt was the most important challenge facing Clarington as its population continues to grow. Challenges 1. Planning / Balancing development / Growth / Sprawl 15% 2, Traffic congestion 11% 3. Infrastructure / services 9% 4. Education / lack of schools 9% 5. Roads / maintenance 8% Don't know 7% 6, Employment 6% 7, Transportation (alternatives) 6% 8. Housing (affordable) 5% 9. Lack of retailers 4% 10. Agricultural preservation 4% Planning for the community including having a balanced approach to development and growth was named by 15% of Clarington residents as the most important challenge, while 11 % said traffic congestion, 9% the need to have infrastructure to keep up with the growth, 9% education needs such as new schools, 8% road maintenance, 6% jobs and 6% alternative modes of transportation. Deal with the Challenges Respondents were then asked how the Municipality should deal with its growth related challenges. Suggestions on how to deal with growth challenges Don 't know 30% 1. Planning / long range planning 12% 2. Better roads / Expanded & widened roads 9% 3. More public transportation 7% 4. Attract larger businesses / industry to area 6% 5. Selective / Planned growth 5% 6. Higher density residential/less residential 5% 7. More schools 4% 8. More services (policing, fire etc) 4% 9. More funding / use funds more effectively 4% 10. Preserve agriculture lands / green spaces 4% Three in ten respondents were unsure or did not know what the Municipality could do to deal with its growth related challenges, Among those with an opinion, 12% stated growth could be dealt with through long range planning, 9% improved road infrastructure, 7% public transportation, 6% attracting new industry, 5% said having limited or selective development and 5% higher density residential developments. Environment Issues Respondents were asked to rate their level of agreement with each of the following statements related to environmental issues, Total Neither Total Don't agree agree nor disagree know disagree I actively participate in recycling programs in 94% 4% 2% 0% my community, Clarington should become a leader in environmental issues and become the 86% 12% 2% 1% greenest community in Ontario. I am willing to pay more for products that are 67% 21% 14% 0% environmentally friendly, I am aware of the environmental issues in my 55% 33% 13% 1% community. Clarington is doing a good job at protecting the environment and promoting energy 43% 33% 20% 5% conservation. I am aware of global warming and the limited sources of energy (oil, gas) and the 44% 14% 44% 0% implications to our quality of life. A high 94% of Clarington residents actively participate in recycling programs. There was strong buy-in from 86% of residents with respect to having Clarington being a leader in environmental issues in Ontario and two-thirds would also be willing to pay more for environmentally friendly products. A small majority claim to be aware of environmental issues in the community but only 43% agreed that the community is going a good job at protecting the environment and promoting energy conservation. There is also a split of opinion with respect to awareness of global warming and its implications. Importance of Environment Issues Respondents were then asked to rate the level of importance of each of the following environmental issues, Total Neither Total Don't Important important nor Unimportant know unimportant Ensuring clean air 98% 1% 1% 1% The protection of ground water sources 96% 2% 2% 0% (including rivers, streams etc) Having recycling programs 96% 4% 1% 0% Having energy conservation programs 94% 5% 2% 0% Ensuring buildings are constructed with environmentally friendly materials and are built 92% 6% 2% 0% to the highest energy efficiency standards Preserving agricultural lands 91% 8% 1% 1% Buying locally grown foods and products 88% 10% 2% 0% Having walking and cycle/bike lanes/trails 82% 12% 7% 0% Having public transit within Clarington and to 79% 13% 7% 1% other parts of the Region Banning the use of pesticides for cosmetic 75% 16% 8% 1% purposes A high level of importance was placed on all areas but especially for ensuring clean air, ground water protection and having recycling programs.