June 9, 2007, The Hamilton Spectator

Burlington wants to clear the air

Dana Brown

Mayor Cam Jackson has announced some initiatives that should help the city spare the air.

At the 2007 Smog Summit in Toronto this week, the mayor said the city's turf maintenance contractor will use biodiesel fuel for all off-road, unlicenced equipment, such as tractors, from May to September.

The move follows the lead of the city, which has been using the alternative fuel in certain vehicles since 2003. Jackson also announced corporate and community initiatives to help reduce single-occupant vehicle use. In hopes of getting more people on transit, a new 90-minute transfer policy will be introduced, as well as a monthly student activity pass for weeknights, weekends and holidays. Corporate moves include the launch of secure, enclosed bike lockers for daytime use.

Ward 5 Councillor Rick Goldring also attended the summit as a representative of the Region of Halton and announced that an air quality modelling and monitoring program will be established in the region.