Dear Markham members:

We are asking Markham RNAO members to contact their Councillors and the Mayor to urge them to pass a strong pesticide by-law, to protect the health of Markham residents. We are optimistic about a good outcome.


Background

On Monday, June 18, Markham General Committee will meet to consider implementing a by-law to regulate the non-essential use of pesticides on public and private property.  A vote on a bylaw is anticipated soon after.  Markham received public input at a prior meeting on May 23. 

Public support for pesticide by-laws is strong across the province, and we believe that a majority of Markham councillors understands that the public wants more protection from pesticides.  If the by-law is passed, Markham would join a long list of Ontario municipalities with such protection, including Toronto, London, Oakville, Peterborough, Newmarket, Thorold, and Collingwood.

RNAO members have been very active in many of the municipal pesticide campaigns, and councillors do weigh the input of RNs and their Association highly.  In its letter to each member of Markham Council [PDF - 45 KB], RNAO outlines the argument for a strong by-law.  RNAO is particularly concerned about the greater risk to children.   

Immediate Action Requested

RNAO urges members to contact Mayor Scarpitti and to other Council members, and ask them to support the strongest possible pesticide by-law.  If you have already done so, please accept our thanks.  Encourage your neighbours and colleagues to write or call Council as well.  Consider attending the public meeting in the Council Chambers at Markham Civic Centre (101 Town Centre Blvd.) on Monday, June 18, 2007 to make a brief presentation.  Markham invites those wishing to appear as a delegation to contact Blair Labelle at 905-477-7000 X3695. The meeting will start at 9 a.m.