Raiser for Council!! (10.07.05)

“Elections are decided by the non-voters....” - A.Wiseman.

We all tell ourselves things to make us feel better. Not so much lies, more like grey area mantras, that while we know they may not be true, life is easier leaving them unchallenged. Ordinarily I can understand this tactic, but there’s one mantra in particular that really burns my britches: “I don’t vote”. Not, they can’t vote, but rather with flabbergasting pride they emit a pompous better-than-thou stance while repeating “I don’t vote” over and over again.

Unfortunately, the logic behind that sentence is easily torn to shreds when you sit back and realize that in fact, everyone votes. Deciding not to vote simply gives power to those you disagree with. Make no mistake, there are people out there who are seeking office who agree with your views whatever they are. You saying “I don’t vote” is a slap in the face to anyone who you’d probably want elected.

Most surprising is this lackadaisical attitude applied towards local elections. Federal I can see being overwhelming, even provincially things are complicated. But municipally there is no excuse as it literally affects your own backyard.

That’s right, local elections are upon us and next month you will have the opportunity to choose Squamish’s elected voices.

Ordinarily, at this time you could reliably turn here to find me passionately dissecting the issues and, in the end, recommending who I believe would be good for Squamish. However, this is far from ordinary times as after years of being hip deep in the issues of Squamish I have succumbed to the overwhelming encouragement to run for Squamish Council. Seeing as how this could be my last column for quite some time I will quickly thank all of you for your support and fiery conversations over the last decade. Whether you disagreed or supported my conversation starters, both sides were always quick to thank me for stoking the fire.

Now, why am I running? I’m running because after five years of writing opinions from the sidelines, I know I’m ready to be part of the solution rather than pointing out the problems. With a beautiful new daughter and supportive wife, I also know that I’m going to be in Squamish for a long time and I want that Squamish to be something future generations can be proud of.

Fiscal responsibility, protection and promotion of outdoor recreation, encouraging livable wage jobs, downtown revitalization, and affordable housing are all issues I believe need to be hammered home.

In the coming weeks many topics will be put forward and it’s very important that you not only make an informed decision, but take the time to encourage your friends and family to get involved.

Now, to be fair to all those involved, I take a break from writing and humbly offer my service as an independent voice to stick up for Squamish (pass it on). May Squamish win.

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