The View from my Window

Municipal Election, 2006

October 29, 2006 on 7:21 pm | In Miscellaneous Musings!, Letter To Editors, Deep River | Comments Off

                                                                                                           2006 October 29

 
Municipal Election, 2006

 
There were eight (8) candidates who assembled (at the McKenzie High School Auditorium on Wednesday 2006 October 25 under the umbrella of Deep River Community Association) to introduce themselves to the community and debate on civic issues for the upcoming municipal elections. The election contest is for five (5) Councillor positions.

 
This was the most civil gathering. There was humour and wittism too. There were neither angry outbursts nor any outspoken issues. We are very fortunate for noble contestants.

 
The meeting was well attended. Unfortunately not many younger citizens or “so called” new Canadians were present. The participation by all segments of the community is healthy. I hope this will be addressed in future municipal deliberations by creative (or targeted) advertising. 

 
Most agreed that the past Council did a good job. Most agreed the uncontested Mayoral candidate is the right candidate for the position. I do not recall anyone remembered or mentioned the uncontested Deputy Mayoral candidate.

 
Most agreed with each other on issues except for a couple of small differences. Out of eight (8) candidates, one (1) candidate served the Town as a Mayor in the past; two (2) candidates had held key positions within the Council bureaucracy for long years and were somewhat influential in the workings of the Council. Three (3) candidates are standing for reelection. Only two (2) candidates bring fresh faces to the contest.

 
Two (2) immediate issues were raised (for the need to upgrade Balmer Bay Road and the need for an accessible public washroom around Deep River Yacht & Tennis club).
 
So if you are not perturbed the way the Town is run or the Town bureaucracy is organized, then your choices are very clear. If you believe that a status quo is not healthy then the choices become complicated and you need to seriously choose the candidates who can bring fresh ideas and articulate these without being afraid to shake the established routine.

 
One choice you would not want! That is to remain on the sideline. Everyone (who is eligible to vote) must get out to vote.
 
Pravin Shah

 

Diwali -Write-up for Deep River /Pembroke East Indian Community Diwali Celebration

October 28, 2006 on 12:39 pm | In Miscellaneous Musings! | Comments Off