City Council has adopted The Way We Green as their strategic longterm plan for the municipality.  Earlier in the morning council voted on whether to allow the public to speak today, and they needed a unanimous vote to approve that.  There were two votes against and so there were no speakers called on outside city administration during the discussion today.  Even so, with 55 business owners and professionals on file in support of The Way We Green [including EcoAmmo], I'm clear that we made a difference in empowering those councillors who were working to get the vote passed.  It also further empowered the administration in their efforts to negotiate with industry representatives expressing concerns.

Going into the 1:30 session, it seemed the council was likely split 6-6 on whether they would vote to approve.  Don Iveson did a masterful job framing the conversation, clarifying what was and wasn't on the table.  In addition, city administrators demonstrated real leadership in presenting their case and request for approval.  Several councillors were very generous in their support of the plan and of the work done by city officials, and pushed for faster adoption, more aggressive goals, and increased action:  Linda Sloan, Karen Leibovici, Ben Henderson, Don Iveson, Kim Krushell, and Amarjeet Sohi.

Thanks to everyone for responding and pledging your support for an important move toward a green future.  Having business come out in support of future-based thinking, strong goals for the environment, and a demonstration that the environment and the economy are parts of the same thing are and will continue to be vitally important.  [Email Kevin to be added to his] distribution list to provide future opportunities to participate for anyone who would like access to future consultation efforts from the City of Edmonton.

Congratulations to everyone on a big win.  Please check your Councillors vote and provide them with feedback. [you can find out who your councillor is here]

Have a great night everyone!