To the editor:
There is a buzz about this election like I have never seen before, and that’s after living here for 50 years. Forums are actually being attended and watched. Platforms are actually being scrutinized. Background checks on candidates are in full swing. There is actually word on the street—it would appear that the “silent majority” is done being silent.
Battle lines have been drawn, and for a change, at least so far, there is no mud slinging.
Candidates this time around are going to earn their seats with solid platforms, a clear vision, and dare I say, strong values and morals. There is little tolerance among the electorate for disrespectful behaviour.
The environment is a topic of discussion, candidates and voters alike are taking a moment to consider the effects of their planned actions in a sustainable light.
Community is a word that is being tossed around, as in actually building one.
Leadership is more than a buzzword and a campaign slogan, there are actually candidates demonstrating it.
Transportation, infrastructure, arts and culture, development, population growth, clean industry, youth programs and employment, parks, city hall operations, and more are all on the table this election.
To be sure, there are the usual band of would-be manipulators in the form of special interest groups, one of those groups influenced the outcome of the last election. This time around the people seem to be wary of these groups, and are reacting to them with suspicion, indignation and open eyes. This time around the people are going to do the research and make up their own minds, no more blind leading the blind—no disrespect to the blind.
It is shaping up to be a two horse race for the mayor’s seat, one former mayor with experience, one current councillor with enthusiasm, both with a vision for Kelowna, both passionate about their city and their potential role in shaping it. Both are quality candidates, one the elder statesperson with a vision, the other a younger up and comer with youthful enthusiasm and a vision. This promises to be a match of epic proportions.
The council race is no less interesting, made all the more interesting by the retirement of more than one long time councillor, leaving empty seats to be filled by new eager beavers. People new to politics, people re-entering politics, and current people looking for re-election, there is a full roster to choose from.
The future in Kelowna is looking bright!
Fact or fiction?
We’ll see—the litmus test will be voter turnout.
Bob Purdy, Kelowna
