By Rhonda Massad
VOTE ON NOVEMBER 5
Municipal policies can have a large impact on the quality of life of citizens, and yet, with few exceptions, Canadians tend to be less interested in municipal politics than they are in federal or provincial politics.
In the 2013 municipal election, only 47% of eligible Quebecers bothered to turn out and cast their ballots.
So why vote?
Your municipality provides the day-to-day services you count on, such as fire and police services (demerged cities rely on Montreal for these services), water, parks, snow removal and public libraries.
Your municipality decides how your property tax dollars are spent. Your vote does make a difference. Your vote tells your future council you are interested in what is happening in your community. Your candidates have likely been knocking on your doors to persuade you to vote for them. It is also a great way for the winning candidates to get to know you and what your concerns are. That is important information once they are seated and making decisions on your behalf.
In 2013, Baie D’Urfé had a 55.8% voter turnout compared to Kirkland’s 43%. The Montreal island municipality with the highest voter turnout in 2009 was Ste. Anne de Bellevue where 60% of residents cast ballots. In 2013, in Beaconsfield, only 47% of voters came out to have their voices heard. Senneville showed a tremendous turnout last round with 79% of residents ticking their ballots.
It is your voice, it is your city and it is your vote. Please vote this coming October 29, for the advance poll. November 5, is the regular voting day. Please verify with your municipality for times and locations.
