Changes to the way we vote!

I was speaking to a few people while door knocking yesterday who brought up some interesting questions.  It made me realize that the changes to the way we vote municipally in Milton haven’t been communicated as well as they should.

First off they thought there were two councillors elected, as it was the last time around.  That has changed.

With the ward boundary review complete, starting with this election there are no longer 4 wards.  There are now 8 wards.  Now instead of electing two councillors per ward we elect just one.  You have one choice for each position.  For example, you would cast one vote for local councillor in ward 6 (preferably for Mike Cluett).

As the election date draws closer, people are beginning to see a number of signs appear on our lawns and roadways.  There are a number of positions up for grabs on October 25th and they are the following.

• Mayor (one to be elected)
• Regional Councillor Wards 1,6,7,8 (one to be elected)
• Local Councillor for each ward (one to be elected)
• Public School Board Trustee (one to be elected)
• Separate School Board Trustee (one to be elected)

There isn’t a race this year for Regional Chair as Gary Carr was acclaimed and will serve another 4 years.

I have some information on my Election 2010 page regarding the boundaries of ward 6, polling locations and advance poll dates as well.  Click on ELECTION 2010 to see where you will cast your ballot on or before the 25th.

So, my friends and neighbours in Ward 6 will see a number of signs popping up over the next couple of weeks.  They will contain a number of names running for the other positions and its important you do some research, check websites, call the candidates and read their literature that comes to the door.  Hopefully the candidate will see the importance of visiting you face to face, as I have over the last several months – and continue to do up until election day and beyond.

Hopefully later today or tomorrow, the candidate speeches from TV Cogeco will be online and I’ll make sure I get my 3 minutes of fame up on the website for you to see.

Remember to do your homework and ask the tough questions of the candidates on what their vision of Milton is, and how they will get there.  Ive talked several times about my plan of action:

Financial Management – The first job of the new council will be to approve the 2011 budget.  Town staff has recommended a potential increase of 6.91%, that’s almost 3 times the rate of inflation!  This election, we need someone who will ask the tough questions and do what they can to keep the increase at or below the rate of inflation.

Neighbourhood Safety – Protecting our children is vitally important.  Milton Town Council needs to review speed limits in residential areas and look at other ways to control traffic such as crosswalks, traffic calming tools, radar boards and the promotion of a neighbourhood watch program.

Accountability – Your elected representative needs to be accountable to you!  My commitment is to continue to update my website with important information that you will need to stay informed as Milton changes.  I will also knock on doors, hold regular town hall meetings and issue newsletters in between election campaigns, not just during them.

Thank you to those who have shown their support for me up until today.  Thank you for putting a sign on your lawn to let your neighbours and friends know that you are supporting me this election.  For those who remain undecided, I am available for you if you’d like to chat about my plan and the ways we can help secure Milton’s future, together.

Until then, I’ll see you at the doors.