The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) announced, April 13, 2015, that it intends to press the province to ensure that its proposed cap and trade system, reflects the key role of municipal government in tackling climate change.

AMO President, Gary McNamara, said municipal governments have been at the forefront of climate change efforts, dedicating significant resources to transit, energy efficiency, stormwater management, and other initiatives. To be successful, Ontario’s climate change strategy will need to support municipal action and respect the municipal fiscal situation.

Municipalities collect only nine cents of each tax dollar to fund programs, services, and infrastructure. The AMO estimates that Ontario’s current demand for infrastructure investment will require an additional $60 billion over the next 10 years just to meet current demand. Municipal action on climate change would further increase costs.