Where Has The Environment Been In This Campaign?

So far during this somewhat stunted election campaign, candidates have broached the topic of transit, the waterfront, crime, police and taxes.

But when it comes to being green, there hasn’t been a lot of colourful dialogue.

That doesn’t sit well with Gord Perks, a candidate for city council in Ward 14. The former main man at the Toronto Environmental Alliance is hoping to take his activism to City Hall after the November 13th election.

But while Perks admits his passion for nature is undiluted, that’s not the not the only issue he’s running on.

“I think the only people who call me a one-issue candidate are people who don’t know me,” he warns. “I’ve been a very visible activist on transit and environmental issues for 20 years in this city so people know who I am independently.”

But Perks’ presence may be one reason the veteran campaigner has brought the environment to the forefront in his ward. Many of those running against him have also addressed the issue, something that’s been absent elsewhere.

And that’s made for a more lively and healthier campaign. “Too many candidates and actually there are several very good candidates so it’s hard to make a choice,” relates voter Patricia O’Sullivan, in a statement you rarely hear about the race. “It’s too bad.”

Still, some aren’t thinking green at all.

“I take the environment maybe third,” contends Ram Chatar. “Crime is most important for me … and they should have more programs for the younger kids.”

Others argue traffic and gridlock is the number one issue. The economy is also up there.

Perks claims he’s informed on all of them and is ready to act on all the concerns if voters send him to city council.

“As we get towards the end, I’m finding people are really honing in on the issues they care about: environment, housing, safe streets,” he lists. 

If he wins, those running against him will continue to be green. But this time, it will likely be with envy.