Introduction
The Town of Antigonish is actively engaged with sustainability initiatives through the collective participation of our community, businesses and organizations. In 1987, the United Nations adapted a definition for Sustainable Development as “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” Town Council and Staff are committed to the four pillars of sustainability that make up the foundation for a progressive community.
The Antigonish 2020 Foresight process was inclusive and widely consultative over a two year timeframe. The activities have been conducted through geographical and digital outreach, two annual community conferences and dedicated work of approximately 36 community volunteers representing a broad base of stakeholders as a steering group. Over 500 people representing the community, public, private and not-for-profit sectors were engaged in the public input process.
Vision
In 2007, Town Council endorsed the following Sustainability Vision for the Town of Antigonish.
Antigonish is a vibrant, safe, diverse, and affordable community, caring in nature, proud in its heritage and committed to sustainability.
Central to this vision are our values of preserving a high quality of life and well-being of our citizens, celebrating our heritage and culture, protecting our natural environment, enhancing learning opportunities and working collectively and peacefully to advance prosperity.
Progress
Town Sustainability Committee
The Town Sustainability Committee is an official Committee endorsed by Town Council and is represented by Town Council, Staff and Community Members. The Committee’s mandate is to make recommendations to Council on all matters related to Sustainability.
Municipal Climate Change Action Plan
In December 2008, an extension to the original Municipal Funding Agreement to transfer additional Gas Tax Revenues was announced by the Federal Government with the goal to provide an additional $223 million in funding between the years 2010 and 2014 to enable municipalities to continue to invest in environmentally-sustainable infrastructure projects that contribute to reduced greenhouse gas emissions, clean water and clean air. In order to access these funds, each municipality is required to prepare and submit a Municipal Climate Change Action Plan (MCCAP).
The MCCAP will focus both on Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation – how municipalities plan to respond to climate change. The Town of Antigonish completed the MCCAP by March, 2013.
Municipal Strategic Plan 2011-2016
A 5 year Municipal Strategic Plan was developed in 2011. The plan identifies 6 strategic directions and provides direction and focus for the Town of Antigonish and helps us align with common goals. It is our road map to success in delivering municipal services. This Plan supports us in ensuring we have the capacity, tools, systems, and people to deliver leadership and sustainable municipal services.
Publications
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Integrated Community Sustainability Plan
pdf
Integrated Community Sustainability Plan Progress Report 2012
(55 KB)
pdf
Municipal Climate Change Action Plan
pdf
Climate Change FAQ
pdf
Municipal Strategic Plan 2011-2016
pdf
Framework For Antigonish As A Leading Sustainable Community
