DOWNLOADS
Looking to help out? Here are some materials you can use in social media, letter writing and postering.
TELL COUNCIL YOU SUPPORT EV CHARGERS (finishes May 12)
From Felicity Sutcliffe
On March 24 there was a proposal to council with partial funding from the federal government to install 4, Level 3 EV chargers. The council voted it down. Now there is another proposal coming to council this Monday May 12 for 2 Level 3 chargers. Felicity has written that the Level 3 chargers are what is needed in town.
Here is Felicity and Geoff’s letter to the city. You can email your version to the Mayor and all councillors together by clicking this link: https://forms.stratford.ca/IT-Services/CAO-Mayor-Council/Email-City-Council
To: Mayor Ritsma and Council
RE: Installation of Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Infrastructure
We would like to express our strong support for your expansion of EV charging infrastructure in Stratford, this time through the installation of Level 3 chargers at the Rotary complex.
Expanding the number of Level 2 chargers was an important first step. However, these chargers are only useful for lengthy charging sessions and are therefore best suited for people spending hours shopping or attending a performance.
Level 3, or fast chargers, are currently lacking in Stratford. These chargers are a draw forEV drivers who need a quick charge of their vehicle, which normally takes 30 minutes to an hour. They are essential for EV drivers who are stopping for a bite to eat, a grocery shop, attending an event, or who need a fast charge to get home.
We have been driving an EV for three years. An important part of our decision making about where we are going depends on the availability of a good charging infrastructure. There are some places that really stand out – Parry Sound and Huntsville being two examples. In both these locations EV charging capability is clearly a key part of their tourism strategy. Tourists spend money. They buy meals, use accommodation, shop, attend events, and act as ambassadors for their friends.
This initiative aligns with the Community Climate Action Plan and contributes to Council achieving its net-zero goal. It’s also part of the City’s strategic plan for Green Tourism initiatives, and adds to the amenities available at the Rotary complex, which is a draw for out-of-town visitors from around the province for various events and activities. Lastly, as the Management Report of March 24, 2025 explains, there is money in the form of grants which may be accessed to help you defray the cost of installation.
Approval of this initiative would help Council prove that Stratford continues to be a progressive and welcoming city.
Sincerely.
Feclicity Sutcliffe, Geoff Williams
POSTERING NEEDED (finishes August 31)
Our cartoon contest runs until August 31. Students at all Stratford and Perth County elementary and secondary schools may enter. (learn more here)
We could use some help in getting posters up. If you have a home printer, just print off a copy, and find a good place to post it (with permission). If you don’t have a colour printer, you can touch up the black-and-white one with coloured pencils or a marker.
Please let us know where you posted it!
