The Editorial in the Woolwich Observer hit home for me as a candidate in this year’s election.
How do we create engagement between our local government and residents? And not just during elections, but on-going?
One of my reasons for running is my belief that I shouldn’t complain if I’m not prepared to suggest options and try to be part of the solution. I believe that all of us can make a difference and be heard. It takes effort. It also needs to be a two-way street. As local government, we have an obligation to keep the community informed and find new ways of engagement. At the same time, Council and staff do truly want to hear opinions, ideas and concerns from you.
I will admit I am not a fan of compulsory voting. I see it as a privilege to live in a free democracy, and I think that includes the right to not participate.
Bringing the election to our schools can be effective. Adding the civics course in high school is a good start. Would matching the voting age to the students taking the course help start a pattern of voting in the next generation?
Here’s hoping the signs around the township, the all-candidates meetings and campaign efforts of every candidate bring more people out to vote.
Woolwich is better for it!