Kathryn
LightNews LightNews
banner
kmsheps.bsky.social
Kathryn
@kmsheps.bsky.social
890 followers 370 following 98 posts
Engagement, research coordination and collaboration. Regional Project Coordinator, Marine Plan Partnership for the North Pacific Coast. Facilitator, marine scientist, dog-rescuer, happy mama and baseball fan. Previously, BECI, DCC-NEP
Posts Replies Media Videos
Reposted by Kathryn
ziyatong.bsky.social
literally every single person I know in BC right now re: Carney’s proposed pipeline
a man with a beard and the words " you shall not pass " on the bottom
ALT: a man with a beard and the words " you shall not pass " on the bottom
media.tenor.com
November 29, 2025 at 2:57 AM
Reposted by Kathryn
amandafollett.bsky.social
I think it’s bad, actually, to play political chess with Indigenous rights.
November 27, 2025 at 11:34 PM
Reposted by Kathryn
rachelgilmore.bsky.social
Trudeau-era environment minister Steven Guilbeault has published a resignation letter detailing the reasons for his departure from Carney's cabinet.

He directly cites today's MOU:
Statement by Steven Guilbeault This afternoon, it is with great sadness that I submitted my resignation to the Prime Minister as Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, Minister of Nature and Parks Canada, as well as his Lieutenant in Quebec. As you know, I chose to enter politics to champion the fight against climate change and the protection of the environment. Over the past ten years, our country has made historic progress in reducing climate pollution, protecting nature and the environment, while our economy continued to grow. I believe I have contributed to these advancements, and I remain deeply proud of the achievements I have helped bring forward: • Standing up to tech giants and major polluters • Implementing Canada's first emissions reduction plan, slowing their growth and placing them on a downward trajectory • Establishing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation • Modernizing the Canadian Environmental Protection Act • Developing the country's first national climate adaptation strategy to protect our communities • Eliminating harmful single-use plastics • Implementing the most ambitious nature conservation plan in the country's history • Continuing the modernization of the Official Languages Act • Making historic investments in arts and culture, including during the COVID-19 crisis and in the most recent budget Changes in our relationship with the United States have led to profound disruptions affecting the global order, diplomatic relations, and the economy. I understand and share the Prime Minister's efforts to ensure our country First, there was no consultation with the Indigenous nations of the West Coast of British Columbia or with the provincial government, who would be greatly affected by this agreement. Furthermore, a pipeline to the West Coast would have major environmental impacts, particularly as it could cross the Great Bear Rainforest, contribute to a significant increase in climate pollution, and move Canada further away from its greenhouse gas reduction targets. Lifting the tanker ban on the West Coast would also significantly increase the risk of accidents in the region. This moratorium was established in 1972 following a unanimous vote in the House of Commons, notably because navigation in the Hecate Strait is highly dangerous. Its removal would also hinder the creation of a marine conservation area in the Great Bear Sea, a project our government has been actively developing with Indigenous partners and the government of British Columbia for several years, protecting more than 100,000 km of this ecologically sensitive region. We cannot hope to decarbonize our economy without decarbonizing the electricity sector. The proposal to exempt Alberta from the Clean Electricity Regulations in exchange for stricter industrial carbon pricing rules and the Pathways project is, in my view, a serious mistake. As shown in the analysis submitted to the House of Commons, without this regulation, the electricity sector-which has halved its pollution over the past 20 years-would return to an upward emissions trajectory. This regulation also saves lives by reducing air pollution, generates over $3 billion in healthcare savings, and ultimately reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 182 million tonnes. Finally, over the past few months, several elements of the climate action plan I worked on as Minister of the Environment have been, or are about to be, dismantled: the consumer carbon pricing, the Zero Emission Vehicle standard, the oil and gas sector emissions cap, the framework to eliminate fossil fuel subsidies, and the Clean Electricity Regulations. In my view, these measures remain essential to our climate action plan. I want to express my sincere gratitude to the citizens of Laurier-Sainte-Marie for the trust they have placed in me since 2019. I will continue to represent them as their Liberal Member of Parliament with dedication. I also thank the Prime Minister for the honor of serving in his cabinet and as his lieutenant in Quebec. When I entered politics, it was because I had a deep conviction that I could make a difference in fighting climate change and protecting our environment. My commitment to leaving a better world for the future of our children and our planet remains unchanged. Steven Guilbeault Member of Parliament for Laurier-Sainte-Marie
November 27, 2025 at 9:55 PM
Reposted by Kathryn
sobittersosweet.bsky.social
The Ottawa-Alberta MOU is nothing more than a pipedream - Coastal First Nations

"We have zero interest in co-ownership or economic benefits of a project that has the potential to destroy our way of life and everything we have built on the coast," says Heiltsuk Nation elected Chief Marilyn Slett
Never Going To Happen: Coastal First Nations Say MOU Does Nothing to Improve Chances of a North Coast Pipeline Nations will never allow oil tankers in their waters; one spill could destroy their way of life. COAST SALISH TERRITORY, VANCOUVER, B.C. (Nov. 27, 2025) – Marilyn Slett, President of the Coastal First Nations – Great Bear Initiative and elected Chief of the Heiltsuk Nation, issued the following statement in reaction to the announcement today of an MOU between the Alberta and federal governments, prioritizing a North Coast pipeline: “Today’s MOU does nothing to increase the chances of a pipeline project to the northwest coast ever becoming a reality. Coastal First Nations, along with the province of BC, will never allow our coast to be put at risk of a catastrophic oil spill. “We have made repeated calls to the federal government to uphold Bill C-48, the Oil Tanker Moratorium Act, as it is foundational to the vibrant and growing conservation economy we have built on the North Coast. Coastal First Nations, along with the province of BC, have made it clear through our joint declaration that the tanker ban is not up for negotiation. We will never tolerate any exemptions or carveouts, period. “There is no technology that can clean up an oil spill at sea or in a salmon river, and there is nothing in this MOU that overrides our inherent constitutional authority and stewardship responsibilities as the Rights and Title Holders of the Central and North Coast and Haida Gwaii. “We have zero interest in co-ownership or economic benefits of a project that has the potential to destroy our way of life and everything we have built on the coast. “We have a strong track record of world-leading initiatives that are protecting our environment, creating permanent jobs, delivering billions of dollars to BC’s GDP, and building a sustainable, diverse economy that supports the livelihoods of thousands of residents on the North Coast. “These are economically challenging t…
November 27, 2025 at 6:46 PM
kmsheps.bsky.social
This Is a disastrous decision for a fledgling government with a slim majority. The pipeline will not be built, and now you’ve lost social license in BC, and richly earned the distrust of First Nations.
mark-carney.bsky.social Mark Carney @mark-carney.bsky.social · 2d
In the face of global trade shifts and uncertainty, we’re working to build a stronger, more sustainable, more competitive, and more independent economy.

Canada’s MOU with Alberta will ensure we can advance that mission together.
November 27, 2025 at 5:09 PM
Reposted by Kathryn
rcolesworthy.bsky.social
one of the coolest things about ChatGPT is how you can actually just never use it. you can fill your whole entire life with simply not once using it. it's incredible.
November 25, 2025 at 4:15 PM
Reposted by Kathryn
nicolaz.bsky.social
For the Disability community, losing Alice Wong is like losing Ursula Le Guin or Octavia Butler. She was a powerhouse, a pioneer, and a mentor to many. She taught me so much. And always reminded me what we were fighting towards, as well as against. I miss her clarity, bravery, and joy.
Alice Wong
Alice Wong had an outsized impact on Disability justice. As a community organiser, activist, mentor, and co-conspirator, as writer, editor, and friend, she is irreplaceable.
nicolagriffith.com
November 16, 2025 at 7:59 PM
kmsheps.bsky.social
¡Alice Wong, Presente!
November 15, 2025 at 6:27 PM
Reposted by Kathryn
lanefab.com
If you're a vancouver based business owner who wants to show support for the city's sustainability, planning and arts programs and staff, here's a letter to sign:

(letter facilitated by stand.earth)

docs.google.com/document/d/1...
Open Letter: Vancouver Businesses Urge Council to Protect Vancouver’s Clean Competitiveness in Budget 2026
Sign on to the letter here. SUBJECT: Vancouver Businesses Urge Council to Protect Vancouver’s Clean Competitiveness in Budget 2026 Dear Mayor and Councillors, We are writing as businesses based and w...
docs.google.com
November 13, 2025 at 10:04 PM
Reposted by Kathryn
jamesglave.bsky.social
Councillor @seanorr.bsky.social via his ‘gram: “Last night, after council was dispersing around 10pm, I heard [Mayor Sim] say something that really bothered me… He said ‘What an awesome waste of time. Another day in paradise.’”
seanorr.bsky.social SEAN ORR @seanorr.bsky.social · 16d
Ok folks we are back at it again from 1-5. Yesterday was a lot. Heard from so many passionate Vancouverites.

Unfortunately I heard the mayor say it was a waste of time. But I assure you, I’m listening.
seanorr.bsky.social SEAN ORR @seanorr.bsky.social · 17d
Budget hearing continued after short recess. 157: environmental lawyer (?)Reads poem. 158: raised in east van. This is austerity and hasn’t been asked for. I’ve been lucky enough to use public services. Breaks my heart to think they won’t get same quality. Few people asked for this police budget.
November 13, 2025 at 8:58 PM
Reposted by Kathryn
anatosaurus.bsky.social
Absolutely fitting coda to the whole Epstein horror show is that the brave testimony of dozens of women could not be credited and we need the emails of men to deem it credible.
November 13, 2025 at 4:58 PM
Reposted by Kathryn
perdomology.bsky.social
The timing of this video as I’m reflecting on the revolt at City Council against Sim’s budget cuts is just perfect.

Can’t wait to vote against all of ABC.
onecityvan.bsky.social OneCity Vancouver @onecityvan.bsky.social · 17d
BIG NEWS: OneCity is running for Mayor in 2026!

We’re officially launching our open Mayoral nomination contest and giving *you* a voice in who should lead our city.
November 13, 2025 at 1:31 AM
kmsheps.bsky.social
That's me - I feel like I spoke too quickly and of course my voice shook with nerves, but it was important to me to speak up for a city I love.
seanorr.bsky.social SEAN ORR @seanorr.bsky.social · 17d
155: small biz owner, lives in co-op. Need budget that reflects public input. Maintaining is not enough it’s regressive. Richest city in world, deeply shameful that we have such inequality. Losing public expertise makes us all vulnerable. How many will die in a disaster? We look small and weak.
November 13, 2025 at 3:14 AM
kmsheps.bsky.social
Follow along here as Councillor Orr reports out on the city council's budget discussion (thanks, Sean for keeping us updated!)
seanorr.bsky.social SEAN ORR @seanorr.bsky.social · 17d
Good morning. It’s budget day. I’m going to try and live skeet the proceedings so speakers know where we are at. First is staff presentation. 91 slides.
November 12, 2025 at 10:33 PM
Reposted by Kathryn
jmcelroy.bsky.social
Worth noting that because Sim brought forward his proposal for a property tax freeze requiring millions in cuts with just weeks left in the budget process, this is not up for public debate and is not outlined in the documents available to councillors when they vote on this
natashabulowski.bsky.social Natasha Bulowski @natashabulowski.bsky.social · 19d
SCOOP: Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim is planning to eliminate the city's sustainability and climate department under the guise of a push to prevent increases to property taxes in his proposed 2026 budget.
Great source work by Marc Fawcett-Atkinson to uncover this
www.nationalobserver.com/2025/11/11/n...
Vancouver mayor plans to eliminate city's climate and sustainability department
Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim is planning to eliminate the city's sustainability and climate department under the guise of a push to prevent increases to property taxes. Canada's National Observer learned a...
www.nationalobserver.com
November 11, 2025 at 3:26 AM
Reposted by Kathryn
parkboardscott.bsky.social
Without an elected Park Board no one would know about Ken’s cuts. This is why he wanted us gone.

Welcome to Ken’s dirty, closed, no-fun Vancouver!

vancouver.citynews.ca/2025/11/04/v...
Pools, fireworks, polar bear swims at risk as Vancouver Park Board motions for a lesser share of Sim's 'Zero Means Zero' cuts
The Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation has filed an official response to Mayor Ken Sim's steep budget reductions for 2026.
vancouver.citynews.ca
November 4, 2025 at 6:52 PM
Reposted by Kathryn
jameswsthomson.com
Vancouver had 117 people die during the 2021 heat dome climate disaster.
November 11, 2025 at 1:49 AM
kmsheps.bsky.social
I figured this was coming. This budget is entirely an ideological project. Nowhere in this budget is consideration for Vancouver residents or their needs.
November 11, 2025 at 1:58 AM
Reposted by Kathryn
kwardvancouver.bsky.social
42% of residents and 37% of businesses surveyed supported a 5% property tax increase in order to maintain the current level of services in the city of Vancouver

but wait there’s more

a lot more

1/?

council.vancouver.ca/20251112/doc...
Preferred Property Tax Scenarios (based on June 2025 direction) • Residents and businesses were asked about their preferences for property tax increases relative to service levels (reflecting 2026 Budget scenarios staff were directed to explore in June 2025). • Most respondents are supportive of some increase in property tax. Of the options presented, the most preferred was a “property tax increase of 5% that maintains the current level of City services” (42% residents, 37% businesses). • On October 8, 2025, Council provided direction for staff to move forward and prepare the 2026 Budget with a 0% property tax increase, while prioritizing core City services and maintaining community grants, library and community centre services. This direction is different than the budget scenarios suggested in 2026 Budget survey ey question preamble: “The City continues to face significant financial pressures related to overall rising costs, regional levies from Metro Vancouver and E-Comm 9-1-1, among many factors. As mentioned, property tax increases are one financial tool that the City can use to help address rising costs, balance the budget and maintain service levels. For the City to continue providing the same level of services, analysis by staff showed a 5% increase in property taxes would be needed due to cost pressures. In an effort to address affordability for residents and businesses, City Council asked staff to create three budget scenarios based on 0%, 1.5%, and 2.5% property tax increases. Property taxes are the City’s main source of revenue and help fund the services people rely on. For that reason, decisions about property tax rates and service levels are considered together during the budget process.”
November 10, 2025 at 5:25 PM
Reposted by Kathryn
kareem42.bsky.social
The level of incompetence with the budget is historic. In all of Vancouver history no one has raised taxes more than Ken Sim in a 4 year period. What’s the reward for the taxpayer’s investment… record historic cuts.
vancouverliberals.bsky.social Vancouver Liberals @vancouverliberals.bsky.social · 19d
Everyone’s property tax bill will go up this year. Ken Sim and ABC are increasing utility fees, user fees, and business permit fees. But worse, they have been cutting frontline services while spending money on back-office consultants and analysts.
November 10, 2025 at 4:15 PM
Reposted by Kathryn
copevancouver.bsky.social
Ken Sim hopes you don't see this screenshot from the City's 2026 Budget Feedback report.

By a more than 4-to-1 margin, residents of Vancouver preferred a tax rate that maintained public services to ABC's reckless 0% tax gimmick.

#vanpoli #StopTheCuts #Budget2026 #FightForVancouver
Preferred Property Tax Scenarios (based on June 2025 direction) Shows percentage results: 42% for a 5% tax increase that maintains the current levels of service 16% for a 2.5% increase with some reductions in services 12% for a 1.5% increaes with moderate reductions in services 10% for a 0% increase with the most reductions in services
November 9, 2025 at 6:36 PM
kmsheps.bsky.social
I suspect this was long-planned - when ABC realized they wouldn't get re-elected, they decided to impose their ideology on the city and destroy some of the most forward thinking, innovative departments in the city. Always money for cops, never money for regular people or their priorities.
brenttoderian.bsky.social Brent Toderian @brenttoderian.bsky.social · 23d
“In his final budget before facing voters next October, Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim is presenting a property tax freeze and $50 million more for police, & major cuts to arts, culture, community services & sustainability.”

Brutal austerity for everything else, but $50 million more for over-budget cops.
'I'm proud of this one': Mayor Ken Sim talks budget with $50 million more for police amid property tax freeze | CBC News
In his final budget before facing voters next October, Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim is presenting a property tax freeze, and $50 million more for police, balanced by major cuts to arts, culture, community ...
www.cbc.ca
November 6, 2025 at 8:49 PM
Reposted by Kathryn
ptfry.bsky.social
Vancouver's 'zero means zero' budget will mean slashing 400 jobs “These aren’t surgical cuts. These are chainsaw cuts. We haven’t gotten the details of where these cuts are going to really land and what it’s going to mean for services that Vancouverites rely on"
vancouversun.com/opinion/colu...
Leaked memo says Vancouver's 'back to basics' budget will mean slashing 400 jobs
Draft budget contemplates cuts in 12 of 20 areas, and spending freezes in two. Five departments will get spending boosts. Read more.
vancouversun.com
November 6, 2025 at 1:47 AM
Reposted by Kathryn
globalhome.bsky.social
A ray of hope during bleak times for #nature and #climate. Gratitude to Coastal First Nations for their leadership defending the #GreatBear #Rainforest and Sea from #oiltankers & Premier Eby for signing the #NorthCoast Protection Declaration with them #bcpoli #cdnpoli news.gov.bc.ca/releases/202...
Premier’s, Coastal First Nations’ statement on the North Coast Protection Declaration
This morning, on Nov. 5, 2025, Premier David Eby; Chief Marilyn Slett, president, Coastal First Nations; Mayor Garry Reece, Lax Kw’alaams; Jason Alsop, president, Haida Nation; Paula Amos, Indigenous Tourism B.C.; and Clarence Innis, Hereditary Elder, all signed the following declaration:
news.gov.bc.ca
November 5, 2025 at 4:23 PM
Reposted by Kathryn
stacesmith94.bsky.social
Please help share and sign this letter with your colleagues before November 4th. If you have applied for Tri-Council funding in the last 25 years, all of your data is at risk of being included and sent to an unnamed researcher and MPs on the committee.
Open Letter to Protect Tri-Council EDI Data
Why do we need urgent action to protect our data? The mandate of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Science and Research is to review and report on topics relating to science and research in ...
docs.google.com
October 31, 2025 at 7:40 PM