Kawartha Lakes Report: Prioritizing Local Interests in the Face of Solar and Wind Developments

Local Interests in the Face of Global Objectives

Gather 2030

Sep 15, 2024

Report on Kawartha Lakes Council Decision: Prioritizing Local Interests in the Face of Global Objectives

Date of Discussion: September 10, 2024
Meeting: City of Kawartha Lakes, Committee of the Whole
Memorandum Presented by: Councillor Warren, Seconded by Councillor Perry
Subject: Becoming a Willing Host for Solar and Wind Developments

Introduction

At the Committee of the Whole meeting on September 10, 2024, the City of Kawartha Lakes Council engaged in a critical discussion that highlighted the tension between global objectives and local priorities. Councillor Warren presented a memorandum recommending that the City consider becoming a "Willing Host" for solar and wind developments. The proposal suggested that the Council direct staff to report back in early 2025 on changes to the Provincial Energy Program and the procurement of new projects. This report would include information and options for the Council to reconsider its position on supporting renewable energy projects.

Summary of Councillor Warren’s Memorandum

Councillor Warren’s memorandum underscored the Ontario government's recent initiatives to expand the renewable energy sector, emphasizing potential economic benefits such as job creation and attracting investors to the area. However, the memorandum did not specify who these potential investors might be. The memorandum also referenced the broader global context, noting the ongoing global energy transition and mentioning the Global Climate Summit in Dubai as a point of reference.

For more details, the full memorandum can be accessed here.

Memorandum

Public Response: Local Voices Over Global Agendas

The memorandum was posted on the Facebook page "The Real Bobcaygeon" on September 9, 2024, and received significant public attention. The post attracted 16 commenters, the majority of whom voiced strong opposition to the proposal:

Defending Local Priorities: Out of the 16 commenters, 13 expressed opposition to the memorandum. The common theme among these comments was a defense of local priorities over perceived global agendas. Many commenters questioned the influence of foreign summits and global objectives on local decisions, particularly referencing page 2 of the memorandum, which acknowledged the global energy transition and mentioned the Global Climate Summit in Dubai. The opposition reflected a deep concern that local needs and values could be overshadowed by broader global initiatives, which might not align with the community's best interests.
Support for Local Decision-Making: Only one commenter, expressed support for the memorandum, emphasizing the importance of green energy for the future. However, this lone voice of support was overshadowed by the strong sentiment that local decisions should be made with the community's immediate needs and future in mind, not directed by external influences.

Key Concerns Raised by Councillors: A Focus on Local Interests

For a complete view of the discussion, you can watch the recorded video of the meeting here.

1. Councillor Richardson’s Concerns:

Local Experiences with Wind Turbines: Councillor Richardson highlighted the negative impacts that wind turbines have had on local residents, including noise disturbances and environmental damage. They emphasized the importance of thoroughly considering the placement of new projects to avoid repeating past mistakes that have adversely affected the community.
Caution Against External Pressures: Richardson urged the Council to exercise caution before moving forward with projects that might not align with the community's needs.

2. Councillor Joyce’s Concerns:

Protecting Local Autonomy: Councillor Joyce strongly opposed the inclusion of wind turbines in the proposal, reflecting a commitment to protecting the community from developments that have historically caused harm.

3. Councillor Ashmore’s Concerns:

Environmental and Local Control Issues: Councillor Ashmore raised concerns about the environmental impact of solar farms, particularly noting that local solar installations had changed ownership multiple times and were now controlled by a company based in California. This raised alarms about the loss of local control over important community assets.
Guarding Against Broad, Undefined Commitments: Ashmore questioned the broad and undefined nature of the term "willing host," advocating for a clearer understanding of what such a commitment would mean for the community.

4. Deputy Mayor McDonald’s Concerns:

Timing and Local Considerations: Deputy Mayor McDonald emphasized the need for careful timing and consideration of local factors before making any decisions. He advocated for waiting until more information was available, ensuring that any decision made would be in the best interest of the community.

Outcome of the Vote: A Victory for Local Priorities

In the end, the motion to consider the municipality as a willing host for solar and wind development did not pass, reflecting a small victory for the community’s autonomy and a reminder of the important role our elected representatives play in safeguarding the future of their constituents. The concerns raised by the councillors about the potential impacts of such developments played a crucial role in this outcome, reinforcing the idea that local voices should guide the direction of community growth and development.

Conclusion

The discussion at the City of Kawartha Lakes Committee of the Whole on September 10, 2024, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of local priorities in the face of global objectives. The decision not to move forward with the memorandum reflects the Council’s commitment to ensuring that the future of the community is shaped by those who know it best—its residents and their elected representatives. This outcome highlights the critical role of local governance in determining the direction of our communities, ensuring that decisions made are in the best interests of the people who live there.