There's no denying that summer is slowly fading into fall in Prince George. My husband and I were enjoying coffee on the deck a couple of days ago when he noted a particular broad-leafed deciduous tree in our backyard. Among a swath of green, this tree stood out with leaves that were already yellowing. As he threatened to cut down this most depressing tree and I considered hiding his chainsaw for a few days, his notice of autumn's impending approach started a fall-prep list in my mind: shop for school supplies, buy new runners for the kids, winterize the trailer, and prepare questions for the upcoming municipal election.
How does preparing for municipal elections rank so high on my fall to-do list? Numerous factors have led to my dedication to civic duty. Decades ago, I turned 18 years old while simultaneously taking a political science class and women's studies course at the University of Victoria. Now if that course combination doesn't convince you to vote, I don't know what will. I was also a member of the Vancouver Island Youth Parliament (yes, I know, total geek) and worked as a poll clerk during two elections before I even had the right to vote. But the biggest influence was growing up in a family that rigorously exercised the right to vote in every election.
Consequently, when my first opportunity to cast a ballot surfaced during the 1996 general provincial election, my civic participation was never in question. Voting, for me, is as expected and necessary as eating or breathing and I like to be well informed before marking my ballot. This is why I begin the voting preparation process by attending all-candidates meetings, visiting election candidate's websites, and consuming pre-election media with great fervor.
Unfortunately, I've noticed something amiss during the past few municipal election campaigns in Prince George. There seems to be a great deal of attention and questions for candidates on their platforms regarding recreation, city tax increases, road paving, air quality, utilities, and infrastructure. These are subjects that the candidates seem well versed on and comfortable tackling.
But what about business? Where do municipal candidates stand on corporate taxes or economic development? How will each potential councilor work to attract new businesses to Prince George while supporting existing companies? And of course, we can't overlook the obvious downtown revitalization question...can we speed this one up with renewed drive and determination? These are just a few questions that each candidate must be able to answer thoughtfully.
I'd hate to think that, without a business vote, economic issues are overlooked during candidates' courtship with resident city voters. It is difficult for me to believe that voters simply don't understand the impact that elected officials have on the economic health of Prince George. Whether you own a business in Prince George or not, it is time to prepare tough questions on business interests for those running for city council this fall. But don't stop there. Gather the wherewithal to ask your questions both publicly and privately of each of the potential candidates. Until next week, stay in the black and keep coming back.
