Business community shares concerns about Saskatoon’s climate plan

An ambitious plan to tackle climate change in Saskatoon received the backing of councillors Tuesday, despite opposition from the city’s business community.

The Low Emissions Community Plan released last month  includes 40 initiatives for lowering green house gas emissions.

It comes with an initial price tag of $19-billion, but city staff say it could result in a net savings of $14.6-billion.

Small businesses aren’t convinced yet.

The Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce sent a survey to its 1,500 members last week and nearly two thirds of respondents were opposed to it. Twenty-eight percent were in support.

“The report and the options being recommended outline too many initiatives,” president Darla Lindbjerg told the city’s environment, utilities and corporate services committee meeting on Tuesday.

“This can create uncertainty for business and investment.”

Lindbjerg said increased taxes, and the cost of energy effecient retrofits were the main concerns of members and urged council to “proceed slowly and cautiously.”

Peter Prebble with the Environmental Society commended city staff for the plan that he argues is achievable.

“There’s all kinds of very well thought initiatives that I might say have been proven in lots of other economies around the world.”

In a 4-1 vote, council backed the plan and to begin seeking feedback from the public. Mayor Charlie Clark has said before council has made no commitments and will work through the plan with the community.

The next step is a committee meeting on Aug. 19 where councillors will consider how to proceed on preliminary parts of the plan.

-With files from Chris Vandenbreekel and Brent Bosker