Natural Resources committee  Yes.

Natural Resources committee  In my view, one challenge is the political will of some councils. Sometimes, we start a project, we conduct studies, then an election comes along. The council changes, the new council members decide not to pursue the project. We also sometimes find that there are other priorities

Natural Resources committee  I think those programs have been very successful in enabling innovation in communities. The first one that comes to mind is Cambridge, Ontario, which used its gas tax funding for capacity building work to try to manage its water system better. It was spending a lot on chemical u

Natural Resources committee  Yes. As part of the requirements for receiving our funding, communities are required to report on their environmental performance following the receipt of funds. One year after their project is completed, they report back on GHGs saved, energy savings, water treated, if it's—

Natural Resources committee  We require a report in the first year. Yes.

Natural Resources committee  To apply, communities will submit what they think their performance will be, and it's evaluated by a committee of experts who peer review the project before it's approved. We have some confidence going in, we have some verification at the end, and then we share those lessons. As

Natural Resources committee  The Green Municipal Funds do not currently receive money from the federal government. The last contribution was in 2007 or 2005, I believe. But it is an ongoing fund, and it continues to create benefits for the municipalities and for Canadians. We would be able to contribute to

Natural Resources committee  That is correct.

Natural Resources committee  Thank you, Mr. Chair and members of the committee, for the opportunity to speak to you today. FCM's President, Karen Leibovici, has asked me to extend her greetings. Today, we are pleased to be able to contribute a municipal perspective to your research into innovation in the