Municipal Elections: Why, Who and When?

Dayna, North End Resident and Reader

“I look forward to the always-prompt delivery of the next edition to my mailbox, and to receiving the email alerting me to its availability! I so appreciate that there remains a local community paper at a time when so many others have ceased publication. It’s been a great introduction to the North End!”

Kristina Santone

“Being a part of the North End Breezes board for the past two years has been a privilege. The team does amazing work within the community and serves as a resource hub for all. They are committed, and most importantly, passionate about preserving the North End’s legacy, while also continuing to foster its growth. Whether you are new to the area, or a longtime resident, I encourage you to volunteer with the Breezes in some capacity if you’re able. This team is small but mighty and they are always looking for more support. I’m grateful for the relationships and community I’ve been able to build while serving on the board.

I’ll be joining Welcome Inn as the Executive Director and look forward to taking on a new role in the North End Community while staying connected to The Breezes. “

About now many of us are suffering from election fatigue; the continuous fall-out from the US elections; the Ontario provincial election; the upcoming federal election. Why bother voting or thinking about the October 22^nd municipal elections?

The answer is simple. Of all the levels of government, municipal government has the most immediate impact on our daily lives. Think about the services that they are responsible for.

Roads (repair, building), snow removal
Transit
Planning and development, Official Plans, 1^st level of appeal for variance from the planning code
Waste management
Water- supply and quality; sewage treatment
Public health
Policing, fire and EMS
Parks, community and recreation centres, libraries
… and more

A look through the City of Hamilton website (Hamilton.ca) shows the scope of responsibility of our elected council.

So now that we’ve answered the why – next comes the who. Who should I vote for? Think about the issues that are important to you, in your neighbourhood and in our community as a whole. Find out who is running for mayor and ward councillor. (Their names are posted on the City website at https://www.hamilton.ca/municipal-election) What are their priorities, background and experience? How well do you think they would be able to work with the other councillors and staff? And how do you get this information!

Many candidates are already campaigning door to door. Talk to them. Ask where they stand on issues that are important to you. Do you think that this person has the qualities needed to be successful as a mayor / councillor / school board trustee? Go to candidate meetings and debates. Read newspapers and check their on-line presence. And think about why you would vote for this person.

Finally, the when. Municipal elections in Ontario are held on the 4^th Monday of October every 4 years. In 2018, municipal election day is October 22^nd. There are also advance polls, October 4^th, 6^th, 9^th, 11^th and 13^th. In order to ensure that you are on the voters list, you can check online at voterlookup.ca or call 1-866-296-6722.

List of Nominees