With the municipal election coming up on Oct. 20, the District of Central Saanich wants to improve voter turnout.
In a press release, chief administrative officer Patrick Robins said just 36 per cent of eligible voters turned out for the last election in 2014, so they are taking steps to improve it by advertising advance polling opportunities and releasing more information about candidates.
“We are taking extra steps this election to make voting as easy as possible,” said Robins.
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The District compiled a candidate profile guide to assist voters to learn about candidates. All candidates could submit a brief profile, photo and contact information to introduce themselves and platforms to the electors. The profile is available at centralsaanich.ca/election or in-person by visiting Central Saanich Municipal Hall (1903 Mount Newton Cross Rd.)
“Municipal elections do not generally have a high voter turnout, and yet our local governments play an integral role in our communities,” Robins said. “We want to see new voters in 2018. We know if someone votes as soon as they are eligible, they are more likely to be a lifelong voter. We’re also encouraging parents to bring the next generation of voters to the polls and demonstrate the importance of voting.”
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For the first time in Central Saanich, polling stations will hand out “I Voted” stickers to voters as well as “Future Voter” stickers for children, to try and make voting a familiar activity for youth.
In the press release, the District said that in general local elections are “the most direct way for residents to influence their local government and school district,” and that local governments deliver core services and shape their communities. Local governments decide how and where houses are built, handle roads, water and sewer services, waste disposal and many other services that affect daily life for residents.
Electors will be asked to cast a ballot for six councillors and two Saanich School District trustees (Mayor Ryan Windsor ran unopposed and was acclaimed).
In addition to general voting on Oct. 20, there are three advance voting days at Municipal Hall, 1903 Mount Newton Cross Rd., to allow ample opportunities to voters:
· Wednesday, Oct. 10, 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
· Saturday, Oct. 13, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
· Wednesday, Oct. 17, 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
General Voting Day is Saturday, Oct.20, 2018, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and residents may choose to vote at either of the two polling stations:
· Individual Learning Centre at 1649 Mount Newton Cross Road (former Saanichton Elementary School) or
· Central Saanich Cultural Centre at 1209 Clarke Road (same facility as Central Saanich Library)
If you are not registered, you can register at the polls, if you meet eligibility criteria. Eligibility criteria, information on mail ballot voting and more, is available at centralsaanich.ca/election. Residents are encouraged to contact Central Saanich if they have any questions at 250-652-4444 or by email at elections@csaanich.ca.
reporter@peninsulanewsreview.com