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UPDATES FROM WORKING GROUPS:
a) Circular Economy
The Circular Economy Working Group provided updates on their investigations and results related to reusable plastics (cups and containers) and the Repair Café events.
The Working Group discussed the results from the survey conducted of Barrie restaurants and other eating places in the City related to the usage of reusable cups and containers. They provided examples of other municipalities that have a single-use plastic by-law and policies.
The Committee discussed ideas to promote and educate residents, businesses and City Council to support this initiative.
The Working Group discussed the results from the Repair Café held on April 5, 2025, related to the individuals that attended the event, the types of items repaired and the marketing and media coverage. They advised that the Repair Café was well attended and received good feedback from the attendees. The Working Group advised that they will continue working with Living Green to expand the Repair Café to other locations and promote this initiative.
b) Building, Energy and Housing
There was no update provided.
c) Food Production and Security
There was no update provided.
d) Active and Non-Active Transportation
The Working Group provided an update related to the City’s bike lanes. They advised that many bike lanes don’t meet the current standards for active transportation. Councillor Morales commented that the bike lanes met the active transportation standards when constructed. The Wording Group advised that when speaking with City staff, bike lanes constructed on new roadways are designed with the current standards.
e) Environment and Nature
There was no update provided.