EnviroCollective Network, in collaboration with Regina Energy Transition, Regina Citizens Public Transit Coalition, and Better Bus Youth, gathered questions from each group, complied and distributed a brief survey to candidates. The survey focuses on the City of Regina’s commitments to sustainability and environmental stewardship as outlined in the Energy and Sustainability Framework. Here are the questions:
- Where would you rank achieving the goals expressed in Regina’s Energy & Sustainability Framework in comparison to other council commitments?
- Regina’s Net-Zero target has been set for 2050 but scientists say that to avoid the worst impacts of global warming, economies must shift away from fossil fuels much sooner than this. Are you willing to vote in favour of measures and initiatives that will get Regina to its renewability target as quickly as possible?
- Council’s current Indoor Aquatic Facility includes a first-of-its-kind for the province geothermal heating plant. While costly in the near-term, this plant will provide cheap, emission-free heating to the building over its lifetime and could be expanded to provide heating to the wider community. It may also contribute to Regina becoming a centre for geothermal technology expertise and industry. How do you envision sustainable technologies being incorporated into city projects to increase their efficiency and contribution to our net-zero goals?
- In 2022, Regina began offering fare free transit for anyone 13 years old or under as effort to increase transit use among young people. However, Regina’s Better Bus Youth group has been advocating to expand free transit fares to include high-school students, low-income individuals and seniors. Will you support such efforts to make public transportation affordable?
- Regina’s Transit Master Plan stresses the importance of increasing ride frequency in creating a transit system that people want to use. As increased ride frequency can require more buses and more drivers, it can be a costly thing to implement. How will you support making transit more usable by improving things like the frequency of transit rides? And do you personally take public transit?
- It was revealed through the Energy & Sustainability Framework development process that Regina is filled with people who are not only passionate about the city becoming net-zero, but there are also many experts in this city on the subjects of sustainability, renewable energy and emissions reduction. How would you use your position as city councilor to empower those people?
Mayor
Kevin Kardash Mayoralty
- If elected as mayor achieving the goals would would be achieved. It comes with a cost
- Switching to different alternatives of fuels would make our footprint less. I would vote that quickly as possible more efficient city can run more better it can be.
- I would put the breaks on new build re fix the old building
- I support 100 percent. Everyone deserves a free ride if your young or elderly. I would moved it up to 18 and fares for high school student make more affordable is my goal
- Regina’s Transit Master Plan stresses the importance of increasing ride frequency in creating a transit system that people want to use. As increased ride frequency can require more buses and more drivers, it can be a costly thing to implement. How will you support making transit more usable by improving things like the frequency of transit rides? And do you personally take public transit?
- Do in Phases each year what we plan out
Bevan Fox Mayoralty
- I intend to build on the extensive work that has already been undertaken, and this important framework impacts most of the other council commitments, so I feel achieving these goals would be quite important.
- Yes. I want what is best for Regina.
- I’m 100% agreeable to incorporating sustainable technologies into city projects where appropriate.
- Of course. Public transit is expensive and important. If there are viable plans to make public transportation affordable they would have my support.
- Public transport is utilized by my friends and family and is incredibly important. The hours of operation, the available routes and the frequency deeply affect peoples ability to get to important things like work, daycare, school and medical appointments. I would be open to evaluating and discussing the Regina Transit Master Plan and how to implement improvements.
- As your mayor, I would support the city councilors in their efforts to recognize and empower the people in their wards that were recognized experts in renewable energy & sustainability. Regina needs to celebrate and promote the expertise of our citizens better all around.
Bill Pratt Mayoralty
- To suggest that the Energy and Sustainability Framework should rank higher or lower than other priorities is misleading. It must be integrated into all our economic and social development initiatives, not treated as an ‘add-on’ or a ‘nice to have.’ As Mayor, I expect the new council to spend its early days gaining a deep understanding of Regina’s long-term plans and commitments. We are joining a program already in progress, and my role is to guide council in fully grasping these ongoing efforts. We are temporary custodians of a city that is constantly evolving and transforming. Once these plans are understood, I will lead council in a way that ensures the focus is on how today’s decisions will shape Regina’s future. Having context and long-term perspective is essential for city council to play a meaningful role in effective governance.
- I encourage you to evaluate your choice for Mayor based on their ability to lead council in a way that brings out the best decisions. These would be decisions that are financially responsible, data-driven, and in the best interest of our city. I understand that these issues are complex and deeply important to all of us. My role is to ensure that the council collaborates effectively to reach decisions that align with these same principles. My goal is to lead with transparency, integrity, and a commitment to building a brighter future for all residents. When you have a Mayor who chooses pet projects and governs only to achieve the majority of votes for those projects, we end up exactly where we are today – a city council that lacks leadership and one that is making poor decisions for our future. It’s enough. No more bad decisions because of poor leadership. With my background in relationship building, community development, and inspiring the best, I am committed to creating an environment that makes good decisions for the City of Regina.
- As Mayor and a proud resident of this city, I am committed to integrating sustainable technologies into our city’s projects. Leading by example can sometimes feel isolating. I also know it drives innovation, courage, and lasting rewards. I understand the value of investing today for a future return, even if it takes time. Not every initiative must deliver immediate results—sometimes patience and commitment to long-term goals are essential. Together, we can build a more sustainable, thriving city for future generations. Implementing the Big Moves of the Energy and Sustainability Framework will impact businesses, the community, and residents’ well-being. By fostering an environment where people can be creative, technologically innovative, and committed to something larger than themselves, we can achieve remarkable results.
- As Mayor I would welcome a conversation about how to make public transportation more accessible and affordable for those you list. Using meaningful community engagement practices and taking the time to explore all options is important for our city. Using the influence that comes with the role of Mayor, I would ensure conversations about this are comprehensive, creative, and contemplated within the context of the entire city. It’s an objective worth exploring.
- Improving ride frequency is more complex than just increasing the number of passengers on the bus. Achieving this requires meaningful engagement with potential riders to understand what would encourage them to use public transit. Addressing this important goal also involves collaborating with innovators, creative thinkers, and current transit employees. A human-centered design approach is essential to solving complex social and economic challenges. This process will require cooperation between stakeholders who may not typically work together. Additionally, it will involve embracing discomfort as part of the journey toward finding effective solutions. I commit to riding the bus at times when I am Mayor.
- The Mayor of Regina must be committed to working with all people, regardless of differing perspectives. Throughout my career leading charitable organizations and serving on boards, including the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada, I have consistently championed meaningful engagement—not just checkbox consultations. As Mayor, I would ensure that those closest to the issues, as well as those impacted by potential solutions, are involved in the decision-making process. I would also ensure that the city’s administration is treated with respect and that their professional expertise is valued in tackling complex challenges. A shared vision for a better future is what propels our city forward, while individual self-interest holds us back. The role of the Mayor is to lead by example, showing compassion, patience, and diplomacy in addressing complex issues. I can do that.
No Responses from:
- Chad Bachynski
- Lori Bresciani
- Melina Bushenlonga
- Nathaniel Hewton
- Sandra Masters
- Bob Pearce
- Shawn Sparvier
- Rod Williams
Ward 1
Joanne Crofford
- Given the overall state of the environment and of our aging infrastructure it should be included in all assessments of infrastructure projects and current upgrades needed to existing City Infrastructure and provision of Utilities, Recycling, Transit, essentially anything that connects to the seven big moves. It should be an automatic process when any of those 7 are underconsideration and also with a plan for how each of those will move forward. And with all plans, it doesn’t mean much if there is no monitoring or measure progress and accountability for implementation. It should be tied to regular evaluation of the departments affected.involved.
- It would be my commitment to do that as I believe our health and survival depend on making these changes. It helps to have a person like Shannon Zachidniak is on Council who is able to explain some technical aspects and as well to understand when that commitment was made, how it was anticipated to fit into the regular budgeting process. This would be essential as no money will create no action. However, it may be possible to work with forward thinking energy companies and other environmental industries to assist in technical or financial partnerships.
- I am aware of the use of geothermal technology in Saskatoon quite a long time ago now and would appreciate an up on how this has worked out for them. It seems that anything that can be done to increase the efficient use of energy should be done.
- I suspect that if you look at what if costs to administer the “Fares” system there could be saving with less administration, printing, handling etc., Under 13 is not meaningful enough as this age group is not the largest group travelling on their own. It should be expanded to include all the groups mentioned as if people can afford a vehicle they are less likely to use the bus. So it will be mostly those least able to afford it who would benefit. I think Para-transit should also be considred for medical purposes as many, like my husband (I am now a widow) are in a life or death situation and receiving essential care. e my husband (now widowed) were in a life or death situation.lling on their own.
- I think not enough is done to make people aware of the cost savings in using the bus as compared to owning a car, providing energy for it, paying for parking, and average yearly cost of repairs. It might wake people up to the possibilities. For it to be use it needs to be very focused on providing the service that people actually need. That gets them to work on time and gets them home after work. Sunday doesn’t work at all for people who work in Senior Care Homes. It starts after they already have to be at work and stops before they get out of work. They certainly can’t afford Uber or taxis. That would be 2 hours of their pay.
- I think you would need targeted working groups inviting the appropriate identification of resource people into the discussion and proposals for solutions. If this proposal did not come from the administration it could go the route of a targeted resolution at council as a way of setting a template to use the City’s expertise and draw from the community that has many well educated and expert people.
Jessica Morris
- I would rank achieving energy and sustainability goals as a top priority for city council. To this end, I would further state that incorporating and embedding energy efficiency and sustainability into every decision the city makes should be standard procedure. The city needs to set an example of prioritizing sustainability in our infrastructure and development plans and to incentivize others to do so. This is low hanging fruit, and while not cheap to do, will certainly have long-lasting results.
- Yes, consistently. This is not only a top priority because we need a planet to live on, but one of the long-term impacts of adopting green energy is cost savings which benefits our entire community financially.
- I would love for Regina to set the standard for innovation and activation of sustainable energies. I envision sustainable technologies being incorporated into all potential development projects, as well as in systematic retro-fitting for infrastructure with suitable lifespans. Now is the time to ensure that we are getting things right and looking after our community and our environment.
- Yes. And I will do you one better, I would support free public transportation for every resident. We don’t make money on our public transportation and nor do we break even—but by investing in free and improved public transportation, we will change the way that we operate as a city. Increased usage of public transportation means few cars on the roads, leading to less wear and tear on our infrastructure and reduced emissions in our environment. Free public transportation would mean lower barriers to residents for getting where they need to go and living a vibrant life. Increased usage of public transportation has the potential to reduce traffic accidents, traffic jams, and even reduced car ownership (bad news for auto-sales, but good news for bicyclists. The ripple effect of improving our public transportation is far-reaching. This shift would foster a more connected, accessible, and equitable city where everyone can fully participate in all that our city has to offer. Ultimately, free and improved public transportation will help make Regina a leader in sustainability and inclusivity, while creating a city where we all can thrive.
- I will support making transit more usable by voting to adequately fund an improved version of it, and by voting to make it more sustainable through clean energy sources. I will further support making transit more usable by inviting community groups to share their thoughts and feedback on how we can improve services, and finally, I will ask that the city share the “story” of how we better serve our community by investing in public transportation, which will garner further public support.
- I recently attended the EV Expo where I met many of the passionate people in our city who are determined to help us reach net-zero. As a city councillor, I will make space at the table to work with experts and community groups to ensure that we are not letting opportunities for sustainable and renewable energy use pass us by. I will encourage the reinstatement of working committees to help guide our decisions and ensure that sustainability and renewable energies are factored into every conversation.
Dan Rashovich – Email Response
I have not read this report so for me to comment is not possible. I do not know the cost to the city and taxpayers to achieve this goal. I will say I support all of us getting better and measures to enhance environmental sustainability. Once I read this report I can better respond to this. Once elected I will have a lot to learn and catch up on. Luckily I do not have a full time job which will allow me to give the time necessary to represent my ward and the citizens of Regina.
No Responses From:
- Talha Khan
Ward 2
André Magnan
- The goals expressed in the ESF are a key priority of mine. These are long-term goals, but we must begin now with concrete steps that can achieve the goals set out in the framework. Climate action and sustainability are essential preconditions for community well-being.
- Yes, I’m willing to support any initiative that will help Regina achieve its sustainability and climate goals. I’m convinced that with the cost of key technologies declining all the time, it will be possible to accelerate our shift to clean energy and other necessary measures.
- I strongly support moving ahead with the IAF with the proposed geothermal plant. Geothermal heating has a lot of potential, and I agree that this provides a unique opportunity to build expertise and know-how. I would like to see the University of Regina, which has supported geothermal heating research in the past, become a partner as part of a larger industry-university hub on this emerging technology.
- My platform includes a pledge to implement fare-free transit for youth 18 and under. I support broadening fare-free rides to other groups, too, but this must be balanced with a sustainable transit funding model.
- Improving transit services for Ward 2 (and by extension, the city) is a platform priority of mine. Harbour Landing, in particular, has high ridership and users often face overcrowded buses. I will advocate for improved services for the most highly-used routes (including 18 and 19) and explore the possibility of an express route serving the neighbourhood. I am a regular transit user during the winter months, when I take the bus to get to and from work.
- I’m prepared to work with experts, activists, and concerned citizens on building a progressive agenda for sustainability in Regina. This means that sustainability issues can’t be siloed, but must instead by connected to other issues including equity and social justice, economic development, and disaster preparedness. In order to keep the city accountable, I’m in favour of robust oversight and reporting for the ESF. This could include citizen and expert input to evaluate the city’s progress.
Bob Hawkins
- I have been on City Council for 12 years. This has enabled me to support the growing awareness of environmental importance in municipal politics. I voted for the Regina 2050 initiative and its operationalization through the Energy and Sustainability Framework. At present, the city has an administrative working group studying how the goals of that framework can be prioritized and implemented in specific areas. Overall, all of our municipal work is put through an environmental lens as is evidenced by the fact that all memos to council supporting various initiatives must set out the environmental impact of those initiatives.
- These initiatives have had, and will continue to have, my support. I want to mention that in my time on council I have taken the initiative in certain environmental areas where I have felt progress could be achieved more quickly. Specifically, well before the federal government took action, I moved a successful motion in council to have single-use plastic shopping bags banned. Surveys prior to that showed that Regina citizens wanted to move in this direction and, since the ban was adopted, it has been embraced without difficulty by Regina merchants and citizens. This has helped clean up our city and save our landfill site. I also want to mention my support from the outset for the green bin organic recycling program which has proven a great success.
- For a time, it looked like the new aquatic facility was being planned without geothermal technology. I had been aware of the potential for this technology from its development at the University of Regina during my time as president there. I pushed hard to see that it was included in the plans for the new pool. This was finally achieved with the assistance of a federal grant specifically targeted for this use. I believe that the technology will prove successful. I also believe that there is sufficient geothermal energy to allow us to develop heating systems for the renewal of housing in North Central, and possibly for use in downtown core buildings as has been pioneered in the City of Prince George where pulp from wood chipping plants provides hot water heat to their downtown. We should be prepared to look to environmental best practices in other communities for adoption in Regina. I sit on the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Board of Directors. FCM operates the Green Municipal Fund which provides resources for new environmental initiatives. Regina should use the Fund to explore new environmental possibilities.
- I support this. It will require participation by the local school board and the provincial government so that these initiatives did not detract from other public transit initiatives and the sustainability of the transit systems as a whole.
- My ward, especially Harbour Landing, has grown very rapidly. Over my time in council, I have advocated for better bus service. This has helped achieve improved service on routes 18 and 19 which has resulted in much better service to the University and the Polytechnic. I also strongly supported the move to provide bus service to the airport which has aided workers at the airport as well as passengers. Of note as well, the electrification of our bus system has begun which, if it proves successful, will result in a fully electric bus fleet by the late 1930s.
- The city administration developing plans for environmental sustainability is working closely with experts in the field. The geothermal project at the new aquatic centre depended on expertise developed at the University of Regina. All Regina public buildings are being retrofitted with the help of experts in the city. Council, city administration, experts and all interested stakeholders must work together to bring forward sustainable solutions and educate the public on the importance of preserving the environment for current and future generations.
No Responses From:
- Anamul Akanda
- Zaid Hameed
- Chidi Igwe
- George Tsiklis
- Sanketkumar Patel
Ward 3
David Froh
- Extremely important.
- Our path to net-zero can create economic opportunity, while creating more resilient city infrastructure and services. We can leverage our traditional energy supply chains to advance renewable energy, as well as retrofitting existing builds, switching to higher efficiency options (e.g. heat pumps), and modernizing our transportation network. We have engineers, instrumentation, metal fabricators, steel, electricians and construction expertise to this. I support our path to net-zero within the city, and national efforts to rapidly reduce emissions. I will push to broaden the tent of supporters, without demonizing energy workers, and instead harness their experience and skills, so as to create good paying jobs, and make Regina a living lab of just transition and climate resiliency.
- My policy related to sustainability can be found here https://www.frohward3.com/policy-priorities/. I believe we must implement the City of Regina Energy & Sustainability Framework. Through zoning, bylaws, land-use planning, investment, partnership and advocacy we can focus on: Retrofit existing buildings: 69% of GHG emissions in Regina come from this area. Support net-zero greenfield buildings: new buildings, and the systems within them (heating, cooling) have an opportunity to be designed and built in a manner that supports sustainability. Fuel switching and heating: Efficient uses of district heating, heat pumps, and renewable energy can save money and reduce GHG emissions within our city.
- Yes
- I believe we can look for ways to electrify the public transit service, while increasing timelessness and service with a smaller more efficient fleet of vehicles. We can also learn from the ride sharing economy to rethink how we approach sustainable public transportation, while securing critical data inputs to help us plan our infrastructure investment.
- We have an opportunity to develop Regina as a living lab where sustainable solutions, infrastructure investment, and innovation solutions are tested, scaled, accepted and exported around the world. With collaborative research focused on policy and economic opportunity between the city, post-secondary institutions, and industry make Regina a green economy powerhouse. Collaboration is how big things get done! We have the experts, industry and advocates to reach net-zero and create economy. If we can do it here, it can be done anywhere.
No Reponses From:
- Faaiq Tanveer
- Barry Wilkie
Ward 4
Deb Nyczai – Email Response
Thank you for reaching out and for the meaningful work you’re doing to address this important issue. While I value the opportunity to engage, I want to acknowledge that, as a candidate with limited capacity my priority right now is focusing on how I can effectively tackle these challenges from within City Council, where I’ll have a clearer understanding of the city’s financial realities and capacity for action.
My platform is centered on:
- Strengthening public services to ensure they are equitable, accessible, and truly serve the needs of all residents.
- Fiscal responsibility and budget management that balances short-term needs with long-term investments in our community’s future.
- Modernizing aging infrastructure to create safer, more sustainable neighborhoods and ensure the well-being of current and future generations.
I am deeply committed to finding progressive solutions that put people first—prioritizing housing, health, and safety, while ensuring we spend responsibly to achieve those goals. I believe in building a city that works for everyone, and that requires careful, thoughtful decision-making.
I look forward to continuing these conversations and finding ways to address the needs of our community together.
No Responses from:
- Balvir Bhathal
- Mark Burton
- Glen Geiger
- Danish Hasan
- Kofo Oni
- Charles Umeh
Ward 5
Sarah Turnbull – Email Response
I am unable to answer much of this without understanding the larger contextual picture. I am not on council (yet) and I do not have all of the information.
Instead of not replying, I am choosing to tell you a little bit about myself.
I sat on the Regina Environmental Advisory Committee back when it existed. Back then our big goal was eliminating the cosmetic use of pesticides and we were successful, I am not sure if that policy still remains. I am a LEED AP, although I got certified in 2007, so its been awhile. I drive a hybrid vehicle, and enjoy riding my bike when I can.
I am very excited about the technology that the new Aquatic Centre is going to bring to the city. I think we should always be designing our buildings consciously to reduce carbon footprint and use new technologies. Anything to seal up our buildings is good. I think the move towards creating a higher density city is likely a good thing, and more bike and road paths that make sense.
In Regina I don’t use public transit that often, I have a 5 year old with a wheelchair and a 3 year old and we need to go to many places. Increasing the rate of transit would help, it would help people with disabilities and seniors as well. There is a lot of concern over the traffic on Arcola and Victoria in Ward 5, and it would be interesting to work on that more. Part of it would be the perception of transit I think. I would like to hear ideas about improvement and education awareness about transit to Arcola East. I went to University in Toronto and I loved the TCC, in Regina it seems many people think they are too good for the bus, which is very silly.
Value wise, I can commit to things in principle. I am not committing to anything in terms of budget and priorities as I do not feel I have enough information on the big picture as simply a candidate.
We absolutely should be consulting with passionate people in the field and experts. Change comes from people with good ideas and that should be celebrated.
We should also bring back the environmental advisory committee for those experts to have a venue to share knowledge.
No Responses From:
- Dave Dharmesh
- Grant Jakubowski
- Marianne Mucz
- Leticia Oystrick
- Shifaan Shafi
Ward 6
Victoria Flores
- Based on my current understanding I think there is room for improvement, however I look forward to familiarizing myself more with the work and plans in progress.
- Yes, I’m willing to support and vote for measures that help Regina meet its renewability goals sooner. That being said, I believe it’s important to make sure that these steps are realistic and that we fully understand the impact they’ll have on the community. I want to see measurable, achievable actions that help us make progress while being mindful of how we get there. At the end of the day, I’m committed to pushing for meaningful progress on climate goals, and I want to make sure we’re doing it in the most effective way possible for everyone in Regina.
- Sustainable technologies like geothermal, solar, and heat recovery systems can have a huge impact on a city like Regina. For example, the geothermal heating plant at the Indoor Aquatic Facility is a great step—it’s a smart investment that will reduce emissions and save money in the long run. I’d love to see more city projects incorporate these kinds of technologies, from solar panels on public buildings to energy-efficient lighting and heating systems. In the long term, these initiatives not only help us meet our net-zero goals but also position Regina as a leader in sustainable practices.
- Yes, definitely! Affordable transit isn’t just great for the environment—it also helps ensure that students, seniors, and low-income individuals have better access to transportation, which can remove barriers to education, work, and essential services. Expanding free transit fares would make a huge difference in the lives of many and support a more inclusive and connected community.
- Improving ride frequency is an important investment—not only for sustainability, but also for helping residents have a better experience navigating the city. More frequent rides mean shorter wait times and more convenience, which makes transit a more attractive option for everyone. Although increasing frequency may be costly, it’s an investment in making our city more accessible, reducing congestion, and ultimately encouraging more people to leave their cars at home. While I don’t personally take public transit, I’ve had many conversations with community members who do. I know that long wait times and limited routes are major issues that often make commuting unnecessarily difficult. Addressing these gaps is key to creating a transit system that people actually want to use.
- As a city councilor, I would work to ensure that experts in sustainability, renewable energy, and emissions reduction are not just heard, but involved in shaping the decisions we make. I’d advocate for setting up advisory groups that include these experts to guide city projects, policies, and initiatives whenever possible or appropriate. Additionally, I’d push for ongoing consultations with these individuals during key city planning processes to make sure we’re using their expertise to inform our approach. Whether it’s reviewing plans or helping to evaluate new projects, I believe having their input consistently would help Regina move toward being a more sustainable city.
No Responses From:
- Fawaz Adegoke
- Glenn Douglas
- Corey Leibrecht
- Julian Levy
- David Whitrow
Ward 7
Shobna Rodons
- I am in support of achieving the goals of making Regina in leading the way on becoming a more sustainable community and holding to that commitment for change.
- The answer is a simple one, of course. However we need to ensure that no one gets left behind in this decision. We must ensure that as we transition that we prepare workers and those that are in these important industries are also coming along, including providing training and retraining as needed. I do not want to see anyone left behind in our plans for a net-zero and renewability plans.
- I do believe we have to ensure any new projects definitely consider more sustainable technologies being incorporated into city projects to increase their efficiency and contribution to our net-zero goals? And retrofitting where possible.
- This is an important initiative and taking care of of children and high-school children; teaching them why its important to use transit is great idea. Including seniors and low income individuals is fair. Though I maybe in favour of this, believe that if this is not possible, perhaps consider lower or reduced cost for these specific groups, this would still generate income and give a needed break to the specific groups.
- I would support use of transit system, frequency is a great idea, to help reduce emissions, if it can be faster and cheaper for people to get around, similarly to bigger centres may help to promote more use thereby getting the end results of lower emissions. I have used the transit system in the past and know that it works very well, when in larger centres that have good and fast transit systems, I do use those.
- I would consult and work with these people to ensure we are moving in the right direction to becoming and leading the way for a more sustainable and renewable community.
No Responses From:
- John Gross
- Abdi Gure
- Terina Nelson (Shaw)
Ward 8
Alex Tkach
- medium to high depending on the particular framework initiative in question as some are more impactful than others
- I would need an example of what those proposed initiatives may look like to provide an honest answer
- sustainable approaches to new building developments should be kept in consideration, there is a lot of potential out there and renewable energy advancements continue to become more accessible and economically friendy.
- making public transportation accessible to as many people as possible is important and as a public service, needs to be supported. Removing the financial barriers for those who can afford it the least is one way to do that.
- making public transit more usable for folks requires continued change in how we frame it, who uses it, and the benefits. We also need to continue to overcome the barriers that prevent residents from using it. Whether that be direct routes, vehicle ports/drop-offs for suburban areas, or other enhancements/mass transportation options the City could be looking at. I use to use it to get downtown for work but I don’t take public transportation anymore as I found the pick-up times/experience going to downtown or trying to get back home again to be too unreliable and with the age of my kids, life is a bit hectic and having a personal vehicle is a requirement for our family, also as a professional I need to meet with clients in a more direct fashion or in locations that don’t always lend themselves to public transit.
- open dialogue, creating time and space for their concerns to be brought forward, especially the voices that are genuine in wanting to see Regina thrive as a whole. Sharing and connecting people with information that is truthful, informative, and transformational.
Cory Terry
- Having an efficient plan in place to make sure upgrades to our infrastructure be it building or fleet vehicles is important we don’t need to spend millions on consulting fees to know that the latest technology is better and more efficient then past technologies.
- I am in favour of upgrading building and vehicles fleets to the l Latest technologies that are provided to help people reduce energy waste. I do not support companies that take advantage of the environment with consultant fees.
- The technology is there so let’s use it and become a world leader.
- Yes
- Well it has to remain safe and efficient without those two things people will be less likely to use the transit. And no i do not use the transit system my jobs are usually in different locations or out of town.
- Listening to the people and looking at the blue print that has been laid out in many other cities
Shanon Zachidniak
- Achieving the goals in Regina’s Energy & Sustainability Framework is one of my top priorities. As someone who co-chaired the consultation process, I’ve seen firsthand how critical this framework is to ensuring Regina’s long-term sustainability. The framework addresses interconnected challenges—environmental, social, and economic—and I am committed to integrating its goals across all council decisions. Sustainability isn’t just a separate policy; it must guide every council commitment, from infrastructure investments to transit planning and community services.
- Yes, absolutely. The 2050 target should be treated as the latest possible deadline, not a comfortable goal to delay action. I am committed to voting in favor of bold, evidence-based initiatives that accelerate our transition away from fossil fuels. I believe Regina can become a leader in renewable energy and climate action if we take decisive steps now. In fact, I was the recipient of a national Clean50 award as a result of my environmental leadership at the local and national level. I will continue to push for measures that align with the science, prioritizing both emissions reductions and social equity.
- Sustainable technologies must be at the forefront of every major city project. The geothermal heating plant at the new aquatic facility is a prime example of how Regina can lead in this space. The same source for geothermal exists across southern Saskatchewan. As a result, a successful project could reap benefits for the province. Technologies like geothermal, solar energy, and district heating systems should not only power city buildings but also serve as learning opportunities for residents, businesses, and educational institutions. I envision Regina becoming a hub for innovation, where sustainable infrastructure attracts industry and investment while reducing emissions and long-term costs.
- Yes, I fully support expanding fare-free transit to make public transportation accessible for all. I led the advocacy to introduce fare-free transit for children 13 and under and I recently submitted a motion for a high school fare-free transit pilot project which will be considered after the election by City Council. Making transit affordable is essential for increasing ridership, reducing emissions, and promoting equity. Free fares for high school students, low-income residents, and seniors will remove financial barriers and encourage greater use of public transit, helping us meet both our social and environmental goals.
- Increasing transit frequency is essential to building a reliable system that residents want to use. I support investing in transit to increase service frequency and improve routes. I would like to see us make further efforts as a city to access all possible funding avenues to assist in this endeavour. A strong transit system benefits everyone—reducing traffic congestion, emissions, and transportation costs. My family and I do take transit and are committed to continuing to increase our transit usage. I will continue to advocate for policies that prioritize public transportation and make it the most convenient choice for residents.
- In 2018, I founded EnviroCollective by connecting with other local residents who shared my concerns about the climate crisis. (Prior to the 2020 election, I left the board of EnviroCollective and as a City Councillor, I am not a member of any advocacy groups). Since then, I have collaborated with other passionate community members to advocate for sustainability. I know how critical it is to involve and hear from residents with interest and expertise. As a City Councillor, I have prioritized this approach as co-chair of the Energy & Sustainability Framework engagement process, and by working collaboratively with community members and grassroots organizations in successfully advocating for fare-free transit. If re-elected, I will push for the return of advisory committees which would be a great venue to involve experts and community advocates in informing city policies..
No Responses from:
- Shannon Orell-Bast
- Mohammad Zafar
Ward 9
Jason Mancinelli
- Ceremonial, there has been no adoption or change through administration other than words and a few busses through grant money spent. This is a philosophical shift that has yet to be embraced or understood for integration in the operation.
- I have a record you may refer to, actions speak louder and I’ve taken them.
- You explain it basically in the question for an example of fancy technology, the landfill generator is another example. The revitalization of assets with an updated envelope and consumption rate will be ongoing as maintenance is a core city responsibility. The efficiency of the work performed and timeliness of restoration/maintenance of assets is a historic failure point of our city correcting this would be a major step forward for environmental initiatives “reuse” and affordability.
- Possibly, current transit users have shared concerns of safety in the last 12-18 months along with increased ridership refusing payment with no apparent destination, often appearing to be impaired. Some thought preparation and coting over and above fair prices must be implemented in union for the decision. A review of public transit issues across Canada speaks to the problem of violence on transit even louder in many communities and the fare free portion has been pointed out as well in some articles. To be clear I appreciate and respect the concept, implementation is not a straight forward process though and due to costs/problems not yet accounted for or spoken too i cannot be outright supportive.
- There are technical innovations that can and are being implemented to overcome the traditional frequency/ridership/cost ratio to move ridership and convenience forward in addition to number of busses. I support both but, it has to be with the overlay of better access and planning for densifying residents/users on current routes instead of greenfield expansion demands cueing the need for a whole new route for few users for many years. We have to grow smarter in unison on many fronts. I do not use transit at this current point in my life.
- I hope my 8 years of representation have illustrated my position as an answer to the question. I don’t just have aspirations I have a record of comments and votes.
Jeff Soroka – Email Response
It would be premature of me to comment on the sustainability program never having been on council. When elected I would be happy to review the goals and affordability of this plan.
No Responses From
- Reid Hill
- Saad Siddiqui
- Tanis Wilder
Ward 10
Chris Simmie
- Very highly.
- We face a particular challenge in terms of our energy market having extremely cheap natural gas. I will vote for the most climate friendly decisions that are also fiscally prudent. It is my hope that the opening of the Asian market to LNG will result in a market correction which will make these decisions easier to justify to taxpayers.
- The geothermal heating plant is a fantastic investment, and I hope to see more projects on the table in the future in a similar vein. We have a target set at 2030 as we ratchet towards zero-energy home design requirements, and I fully support the pathway in that direction. I envision improved insulation and energy recovery systems being an easy to justify focus on city projects, and with a new generation of PV technology just entering mass production the opportunity to both decrease operational costs and improve our footprint on new and existing facilities are clear.
- I would support such an initiative, however I believe that it is just one step required to make transit more attractive to use. I have a larger plan I wish to advance at council which involves creating dedicated bus roadways along the rail infrastructure paths, it is quite ambitious however and may not come to fruition, however it is the type of transformative vision I believe we need in the city, and in general.
- I would support improvements to our bus system, and believe that the best path forward may be a transformative rather than additive plan. on-call neighborhood buses which bring people to collector points is one possibility, another is the aforementioned renewal plan for the rail-lines.
- I would reach out to these people and try to make it known that I am a good conduit for discussion and advocacy on council towards these initiatives, invite them to present to council when appropriate, and work with them and city staff to develop proposals and reports which can lay out the benefits which can be realized of any potential initiative.
Anita Adefuye
- due to its comprehensive approach and long-term vision, I believe that it has taken top place priority in Council’s commitment
- I am happy to vote for initiatives that help the city move forward in achieveiong its renewable targets particularly as it pertains to active transportation and transit. However, I also believe and know that realistically, we may not be able to achieve all of these at one and it is important that we prioritize effectively, remain fiscally responsible and strategically plan out these things to avoid unnecessary burden on residents
- I believe we are already set out to incorporating sustainable technology into city projects within the key initiatives highlighted in the framework. E.g. Retrofitting existing buildings, net-zero new construction, active transportation, etc. This is manifested in projects like the aquatic center just approved by the current city council. So I believe it is the conscious decision we make to ensure that we make net-zero and sustainability the foundation to each of the projects we choose to embark on as a city.
- I will advocate for this to be extended to individuals up to 18 years of age. There are currently some discounts applied to low income earners, I believe that we can expand to other residents who are in dire need of affordable transportation to ensure that transport does not become a barrier to their ability to play, work and live in Regina. Newcomers are also a category of persons who will benefit from an expanded coverage of discounted/free bus transit. I will work with ym colleagues (if elected) to see how we can expand the list of people who are able to access affordable transit
- I personally do not take the transit that often, mostly because I work from home, but my husband does quite often. However, in my early years of being in Canada, I relied on the public transit system to get to work at McDonalds on my 11pm to 7am shift. And yes I wished then that the transits were more frequent. I believe that education and awareness is vital and a first step to sensitizing people on the importance of using the public transit, and how it also enhances not just environmental sustainability, but also personal health and wellness for people considering it keeps them more active. I believe that also making it affordably accessible to those who like me NEED the ride is key to making people ride more. So creating affordable accessibility is one to also increase the transit ride. Finally, I recognize there are budget implications for increasing rides, I want to believe we can source for regional/federal dollars to enhance our public transit infrastructures, to ensure that we have the right infrastructures in place.
- I believe we can bring in the experts to educate city council, and where needed, I am happy to facilitate for them to appear before city council to do that. It is also vital that when developing relevant policies as it pertains to the framework, we have these individuals brought in to offer their expert advice/input in developing strategies, policies and procedures
No Responses From:
- Clark Bezo
- Jerry Flegel
- Umer Syed