Salt Spring is in the final days of the LCC election campaign. If islanders who want the LCC to succeed get out to vote, and concentrate their votes on the most capable candidates, the new LCC will be off to a good start. Otherwise, those who would prefer to see a dysfunctional LCC may get their wish on May 27.
Our star candidates
Positively Forward enthusiastically supports Gayle Baker, Earl Rook and Brian Webster. Find out why. These candidates value inclusiveness, will listen to different points of view, have the knowledge and experience to make informed decisions, and have the time to make the LCC an effective decision-making body.
Who should get my fourth vote?
The ballot lists fifteen candidates and each voter may vote for up to four candidates. It is perfectly acceptable to vote for three candidates. Doing so increases the chance of those candidates getting elected. This strategy is called plumping and concentrates the votes on the top candidates you want to see elected. With so many candidates the votes are likely to be split and this way of voting reduces the risk of vote splitting. We have made the strategic decision to support three outstanding candidates and no others.
Please see our candidates’ websites for ways to assist their campaigns:
Gayle Baker Earl Rook Brian Webster
Initial tasks for the new LCC
Gaining the trust of the Salt Spring community in the LCC’s first term is critical to its future success. That is why it’s imperative that those elected are committed to making it work in collaboration with their fellow commissioners, and that they have the skills and temperament to do that. Each of the four disbanded commissions for which the LCC will have responsibility have existing strategic plans, priorities and associated budgets. The new LCC Commissioners must become familiar with these plans and priorities, determine any changes to be made, how to incorporate volunteer contributions, and direct CRD staff. It may be billed as a part-time position, but an effective LCC Commissioner in this first term will need to devote time and strategic thinking to these tasks. It’s not just a matter of showing up to a meeting and voting ”yes” or “no.” Liaison with other agencies, Improvement Districts and others on a regular basis add to the workload. The role of LCC Commissioner in this first term is not trivial.
Voting opportunities
If you are voting for the first time or have recently moved, be sure to bring acceptable identification with you.
Advance Voting
Wednesday, May 24 from 8 am – 8 pm at the Community Gospel Chapel and the SSI Public Library.
General Election
Saturday, May 27 from 8 am – 8 pm at the SSI Public Library, the Community Gospel Chapel, and the Fulford Hall Senior Centre.
More information here.
Don’t forget to vote, and make sure your friends and neighbours understand how important it is to vote in this election.
Help needed
Positively Forward could use extra hands distributing quarter-page handouts with the names of the candidates we are supporting, along with voting information. If you would like to help, email us.
Our candidates would very much appreciate e-transfers to help with their campaign expenses. Many small contributions add up.
Many thanks to everyone for your concern and help.