Monday, February 2, 2009

Sustainability and Governance

What is Sustainability? Some food for thought and discussion.

"Since the 1980s, the idea of human sustainability has become increasingly associated with the integration of economic, social and environmental spheres. In 1989, the United Nations Brundtland Commission articulated what has now become a widely accepted definition of sustainability: "[to meet] the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs." Wikipedia

In our context then, we need to examine the processes of Union Township and make recommendations or offer insight as to how the township can go about all of it's business in a way that supports the tenants of Sustainability.

What are some of our processes?
  • Tax collection
  • Water and Sewer
  • Construction review and monitoring
  • Planning
  • Municipal Approvals
  • Township Administration
  • Facilities Management
  • Economic Development, DDAs
  • Quality of Life

What are some Tenants of Sustainability?

  • Economic Sustainability - Can we continue to provide our services at a specified cost (internal economics), how can we promote a vibrant economy in our community (external economics)?
  • Social Sustainability - Do our processes promote a bright future, do we include all people in our processes, do we offer equitable access to our services, and approvals. Is the township socially responsible in it's internal workings?
  • Environmental Sustainability - Are we being Eco-friendly in our approvals and ordinances, and management of our facilities ?

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