Ecology Action Centre Releases CBRM Election Toolkit

On October 19, 2024, municipalities across Nova Scotia will head to the polls, and the outcomes will shape local policies for the next four years. For Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM), these elections come at a critical time, as the region faces growing challenges. With population growth, increased pressure on housing, services, and the environment, and the effects of climate change—including more frequent storms, rising temperatures, and sea-level rise—strong municipal leadership is essential.

At the heart of tackling these challenges are effective Municipal Climate Action Plans. We need ambitious, forward-thinking leaders who prioritize sustainability and environmental justice.

That's why the Ecology Action Centre, with input from community groups local to the CBRM, developed the CBRM Elections Toolkit to help you engage with candidates and make sure these issues are front and centre during the election.

What's Inside the Toolkit?

The CBRM Elections Toolkit is designed to equip community members and organizations with the knowledge and resources to ask the right questions and hold candidates accountable. Inside, you’ll find:

• Key environmental issues for the 2024 municipal elections
• Background information and essential facts on each issue
• Questions to ask candidates to learn about their stance and proposed solutions
• Tips for evaluating responses, so you can identify leaders who will take meaningful action
• Sample emails to help you easily connect with candidates

Whether you’re focused on climate action, housing, transportation, or food security, this toolkit will guide you through the process of making your voice heard. You can use it in conversations, at candidate forums, or even just keep it on your fridge to remind yourself of the key questions to ask.

Election Issues Covered in the Guide

The toolkit highlights several pressing issues facing CBRM, including:

• Affordable living and housing
• Transit and active transportation
• Protecting green spaces
• Coastal protection
• Climate action
• Energy poverty
• Community food security

While these are crucial topics, we encourage you to explore the issues that matter most to your specific community. Each area within CBRM has its own unique needs and challenges, and your voice is essential in shaping how candidates address them.

How to Use the Toolkit

This resource is available for download or print. Use it to start conversations with candidates, share it within your networks, or even post it at local community hubs. Let’s work together to make sure environmental and climate justice are central in this election and beyond.

DOWNLOAD THE TOOLKIT HERE.