The Newsy Neighbbour Magazine
August Issue 118
Article Provided By:Marcy Field
On August 1, 2017 seventy-five days
remain until the municipal elections take place in Alberta. One of the unique
characteristics of these elections is the absence of partisan politics. It
appears this absence contributes to another anomaly, the likelihood of
incumbents winning repeated re-elections. A current area councillor recently
brought this to my attention. We discussed how few new ideas emerge with the
same group of people around the table.
A recent article by The University
of Calgary School of Public Policy (March 2017) provides support regarding
re-elections. It states a candidate's character and length of experience take
on a larger priority in the voting decision. As long as citizens remain largely
unperturbed by the overall actions of council, the risk of replacing them at
election time may be seen as unnecessary risk. People chose to maintain the
status quo.
Holding Government Accountable
Elections provide voters the
opportunity to hold governments accountable for policies and actions.
Historically, low levels of participation are experienced during municipal
elections. Voters receive limited information on candidates' positions or
council actions. I believe over the last 30 years, I didn't vote in at
least 50% of municipal elections as the district councillor was acclaimed
because they were the only person stepping forward.
Globally, public dissatisfaction
with the status quo has led with evolving technology are changing the political
environment. The return of populist philosophy in Europe and the United States
is evident. This caustic attitude is creeping into both provincial and federal
politics.
It is important for all levels of
government to work together. They support the same population base at differing
levels. The unique non-partisan nature of municipal politics creates an
environment for councillors to work collaborate to maintain balance and
stability. This serves the population much better than the fiery vitriol
rampantly emerging both provincially and federally from partisan platforms.
Is government to serve the people or
to serve political parties allowing them to continue to form policy and
increase the size of their coffers?
Differing Local Approaches
Strathmore Town Council recently voted
to send Mayor Michael Ell to Edmonton to support a proposal by MLA Derek Fildebrandt
to the Alberta Electoral Boundaries Commission. Councillor Denise Peterson
opposed this motion stating; "I certainly have no problem with you going,
Mayor, on your own hook but I enter into municipal politics because I believe
it is a non-partisan activity and it's one of the reasons why I so fervently
appreciate municipal politics and why I'm here."
Wheatland County Council motioned to
send a letter to the Commission stating they have "no strong issues with
the boundaries as proposed by the commission as (their) main concern is
maintaining the county as a whole under one MLA. But if MLA Fildebrandt’s submission
makes sense to the commission, then (Wheatland County) would gladly remain as
Strathmore-Brooks in one electoral commission as it does seem to meet the
objections of the commission in population and area."
Of course, the size of the proposed
Drumheller-Strathmore constituency may present a problem for effective
engagement with area residents for an MLA. However, this is something already
being experienced by residents within the current constituency. Is
Fildebrandt's primary focus representing his constituents' concerns or partisan
politics?
Speaking for Albertans
Finally, I'm tired of politicians
claiming to be speaking for Albertans. Please note: I am an Albertan. The
majority of things currently bantered about does not represent my opinions and,
likely, others. I don't want Trump politics in my province. I'm supportive of
candidates who show a genuine interest in their constituents serving their best
interests. Elected officials showing genuine interest in those within their
electoral districts is a game changer. It is important for them to listen and
not assume they are speaking on behalf of everyone. Take note of the silent
majority. They're full of surprises.
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