Individual actions are important, but they are not enough on their own to bring about the scale of carbon emission reductions that are required for us to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. We need broader changes at the system level—and that means we have to work collectively. And in this case, “waiting until later” is too late.

As you may recall, Kamloops City Council voted in February 2024 to reduce the Climate Action Levy. Hundreds of you signed our letter protesting this short-sighted decision. The Levy is key to funding initiatives in our Community Climate Action Plan, like building out our active transportation network, reducing GHG emissions from City facilities, and preparing for flooding and wildfires.

As the new budget cycle approaches, now is the time to make sure that climate action funding is fully reinstated. Please take advantage of all opportunities that come your way to let Councillors know that you value the Community Climate Action Plan and that you expect them to stick to the funding formula.

There are lots of ways to show your support. An encouraging word at a public event attended by Council members, a phone call to a Councillor you know personally, or an email sent to all of Council are simple ways to start. These actions get noticed.

One of the very best ways to have your voice heard is to attend budget meetings and contribute via the online Let’s Talk Kamloops website. We’ll make sure to give you a heads up about those opportunities in future newsletters.

It was community support that won a Climate Action Levy in the first place, and it will be grassroots pressure that brings it back to the level needed. Thanks for speaking up for climate action this fall!