I agree incumbents should speak early about their plans. Back in my youth I ran (and lost) in a couple of elections because it appeared no one else was running against the incumbent in my ward. I am not a fan of folks winning by acclamation. I had no real hope of winning, I simply thought it was important that a debate happen, and democracy appear to happen.
By running I also became visible to municipal government, and asked if I would serve on a number of citizens committees at the regional and city level. That was eye-opening, educational, and a whole lot of fun. So long ago.
Sadly, the issues from 30 years ago are pretty much still here. Water, housing, effective transportation, good governanceβ¦
The advantages incumbents have can be a problem, but I'm against trying to level the playing field through term limits. We, the voters, should be allowed to decide whether or not a proven track record built over years of experience is preferable over fresh energies and new perspectives. But I do think candidates seeking re-election should be evaluated primarily on their track records dealing with issues, concerns and possibilities as representatives of their constituencies over time. What they have actually said and done, and how they voted in various areas of public interest and concern should count far more than what they say they stand for and pledge to do in the future. Meanwhile, promising candidates who step forward as willing to serve for the first time deserve ample attention so we can get a sense of who they are and what they are capable of, and so they can get a better sense of the community they hope to serve and represent.
I couldnβt have said it better myself! Iβm also not convinced term limits are the way to go, but perhaps extra βscrutinyβ of the record of incumbents and ample space for new voices to make their case for being elected.
I wonder if it's time for a new Kitchener mayor - he's considered running for the PCs in the past year and I'd love to see some fresh leadership. Also, please, let's vote in a different Regional Chair! The Wilmot Land fiasco, PSB budget...need I say more? I love your question for our incumbents- how are they fostering new candidates? And yes! Let the community know your intentions early!!
I have lived here for 2 decades. This would be my 21st year living as a dark-skinned immigrant in Canada. I have spent maybe a year or two living in Bangalore, India in this time.
I still do not understand politics here in terms of the structures and the means through which individuals, groups, organizations can interact with the various institutions of Canada, Ontario, or the localities.
There do seem to be people who know how all of this fits together and how to engage with various parts & levels, but this appears to be a set of closely guarded secrets rather than knowledge and experience that is shared openly and freely?
I agree incumbents should speak early about their plans. Back in my youth I ran (and lost) in a couple of elections because it appeared no one else was running against the incumbent in my ward. I am not a fan of folks winning by acclamation. I had no real hope of winning, I simply thought it was important that a debate happen, and democracy appear to happen.
By running I also became visible to municipal government, and asked if I would serve on a number of citizens committees at the regional and city level. That was eye-opening, educational, and a whole lot of fun. So long ago.
Sadly, the issues from 30 years ago are pretty much still here. Water, housing, effective transportation, good governanceβ¦
Thatβs amazing that you were willing to do that!
You are kind. Thank you. No more amazing than your own running for office.
And certainly much less amazing than your dedication, and your ongoing efforts to make our community better.
I appreciate your efforts to keep folks informed. Now if only we can get people motivated to get involved.
The advantages incumbents have can be a problem, but I'm against trying to level the playing field through term limits. We, the voters, should be allowed to decide whether or not a proven track record built over years of experience is preferable over fresh energies and new perspectives. But I do think candidates seeking re-election should be evaluated primarily on their track records dealing with issues, concerns and possibilities as representatives of their constituencies over time. What they have actually said and done, and how they voted in various areas of public interest and concern should count far more than what they say they stand for and pledge to do in the future. Meanwhile, promising candidates who step forward as willing to serve for the first time deserve ample attention so we can get a sense of who they are and what they are capable of, and so they can get a better sense of the community they hope to serve and represent.
I couldnβt have said it better myself! Iβm also not convinced term limits are the way to go, but perhaps extra βscrutinyβ of the record of incumbents and ample space for new voices to make their case for being elected.
I wonder if it's time for a new Kitchener mayor - he's considered running for the PCs in the past year and I'd love to see some fresh leadership. Also, please, let's vote in a different Regional Chair! The Wilmot Land fiasco, PSB budget...need I say more? I love your question for our incumbents- how are they fostering new candidates? And yes! Let the community know your intentions early!!
Thanks for reading...and commenting!
I have lived here for 2 decades. This would be my 21st year living as a dark-skinned immigrant in Canada. I have spent maybe a year or two living in Bangalore, India in this time.
I still do not understand politics here in terms of the structures and the means through which individuals, groups, organizations can interact with the various institutions of Canada, Ontario, or the localities.
There do seem to be people who know how all of this fits together and how to engage with various parts & levels, but this appears to be a set of closely guarded secrets rather than knowledge and experience that is shared openly and freely?