Editor:
I am writing to express my disappointment regarding the recent Canmore council decision at its July meeting to cancel the installation of four electric (EV) chargers in Canmore due to increased costs. This decision represents a significant missed opportunity for our town to lead in sustainability and climate action, especially in light of the recent devastating wildfires in Jasper.
The Jasper wildfires, exacerbated by global warming, have caused widespread disruption, evacuations, and damage to the townsite. Rising temperatures and prolonged droughts, both consequences of global warming, have created conditions that fuel such extreme fires. This serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for robust climate action and sustainable infrastructure. The increasing frequency and severity of these events underscore the importance of reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, a goal EV chargers would directly support.
While the initial cost of installing EV chargers may be high, it is a necessary investment in our future. The adoption of electric vehicles is a crucial step towards mitigating climate change, which, in turn, can help prevent the kinds of extreme weather events we are now witnessing. The decision to cancel the project rather than find ways to make it work suggests a lack of commitment to these long-term goals.
It is worth noting starting such projects, even if they are not perfect from the outset, allows for incremental improvements and valuable learning opportunities. The installation of EV chargers, despite potential initial challenges, represents a critical step toward a sustainable future. Avoiding action altogether, on the other hand, guarantees we will not make the necessary progress.
Furthermore, there are viable alternatives to outright cancellation. For example, the Town could explore partnerships with companies specializing in EV charging infrastructure. These companies could install and maintain the chargers, reducing the financial burden on the Town, while ensuring the infrastructure is reliable and accessible. It is crucial, however, to ensure any such partnerships are transparent and free from cronyism, with contracts awarded based on merit and capability rather than personal connections.
Canmore has the potential to be a leader in sustainability, much like the vision demonstrated during the construction of Elevation Place. I urge the current Town leadership to recognize this potential and take bold steps toward a greener future. The recent decision to cancel the EV chargers is a step backward, but it is not too late to course-correct and prioritize sustainable initiatives that will benefit our community and environment for years to come.
Thank you for your attention to this critical issue.
Jim Pyecroft,
Canmore
