I wrote this article on the eve of Municipal Election of 2018 in Deep River.

The article has been forwarded to local newspaper for publication (on 16 Sept 2018)

 

Democracy at work

Deep River is all excited about the upcoming Municipal election. We have many candidates for Mayor and Council . Also for the Reeve position. It is really very heartwarming that we have a diverse group of people offering their time and effort for the good of the town.

There is proliferation of meetings , signposts and pamphlets . The whole town is now decorated with these signposts – some small, some large and all of different colors and height. It adds an ambience to the town.

Our democracy is very transparent and without impact of wealth or power of an individual. What is needed is a genuine commitment for serving the public . Yes, the candidate needs to be polite , civil and have demonstrated genuine good work ethics.

Each candidate projects his or her vision for the future of the town and the method by which such vision will be attained. At least an effort will be made to achieve the stated vision in partnership with other elected members. As we have a democracy in action, any future will be molded with a majority of the Council members in sync. The elected Mayor really cannot dictate his/her views or vision .

Having listened to many candidates at various forums or in private conversation along with reading pamphlets from each candidate the following common objectives are surmised by me.

1) Most candidates seem to want

Ӣ the Town to have a great relation with CNL Рour largest employer

Ӣ to bring about growth of more diverse economic activities in the Town.

Ӣ definitive real housing development within our Town for different categories of people Рsenior, young and for those of lower income.

This has been an effort in the past for Economic Development but not much diversification has been seen . I think with new technology – it is believed some on-line businesses can be developed.

A focused tourism type business has a possibility . For example, an escorted holiday package can be developed – for city populations (Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal etc) when the Town can during summer offer boating, pontoon parties, swimming at our two beaches coupled with lessons for boating and fishing . In winter, the Town can offer actual cross country skiing, downhill skiing as well as coaching for such skiing . And in the evenings for entertainment at various times we have plays , orchestra , dances and other programs that can be developed. We also have Lawn Bowling, Card Games ( Bridge ), golf etc which can be weaved into the program. An genuine entrepreneur , I am sure can develop a good package -but will need cooperation and help from the Town . This can bring employment and income for many diverse group of people in the town .

 

Remember, there are so many newcomers in our country who require ” hand Holding – someone who can show/teach techniques ” for things like boating (and other river activities) , skiing, fishing, card playing etc.

2) Most candidates are genuinely concerned about high property taxes that we have in Deep River . This subject has been discussed and studied by previous councils but we have not seen any reduction in taxes.

Many feel that increase in population in the town will spread the tax burden and thus help in reduction. However, it seems many new employees by CNL or the Garrison wants to stay around Petawawa due to lower taxes there.

Note: Increase in population is feasible if new businesses are developed or attracted in the Town. So far instead , over last few years , we have seen closure of some of the existing businesses.

Many feel that we have Cadillac Police Service and Fire Department – these two services need fair amount of our taxes.

I am sure previous Council(s) have looked at these services and have come up against a wall for any major changes though some movement is noted.

May be an out-of- box type solution is necessary . What ? A restructuring of Municipal administration and/or restructuring current duties of Police and Fire personnel or how about offering Police Services to adjoining towns like Chalk River . Our Police Force is closer than OPP.

I believe the new Council will have their work cut out for this issue. For an out-of-box type solution , a focused leader with a penchant for success is necessary.

We are enchanted and excited by the process of our democracy, our genuine participation in our future and we are fortunate to have many good candidates to stand for election. This is a real democracy at work.

Only job remaining is for all of – each and every one of us – to understand the nuances and commitment of each candidate and go out on the voting day to vote for those we prefer.