John and I attended the all candidates meeting on Monday to solidifying our picks for Mayor and six councillors. I think most of us go to an event like this to validate that who we have already chosen to win will indeed be worthy of our vote.
The Chamber of Commerce hosted the evening and provided random questions to the candidates prior to the event. After that, about a dozen questions were voiced from the crowd that filled the Legion Hall.
Unfortunately, none of the questions from the floor could be directed at any one candidate. You could not single out a candidate and ask him/her a specific question. I understand the reasoning behind this, as there were 16 candidates to get to know, so to speak. But I think the people in attendance were looking for more.
Not so much controversy, but just some real truth about the City of Weyburn issues. I cannot believe that none of the candidates stood up in front of a room full of people to take advantage of the opportunity to address the crowd. The candidates had two minutes at the end of the evening to say whatever they wanted.
Why did no one just stand up and say, “Obviously there is a reason that you have packed this hall tonight. You want change. I want to be part of that change. I promise to …”? I think people really wanted to have someone say that instead of diversify this, growth that, infrastructure this, etc.
Personally, I would like someone who is respected by the citizens of our great city who know them, and more importantly by those OUTSIDE of Weyburn who have never met them before, be it at the provincial or federal level. Remember, you only have one chance to make a first impression! Our representatives should be able to hold their own when asked tough questions. They should be able to present themselves in a fashion that makes new business leaders and potential residents WANT to become part of our community.
I would like someone who can speak effectively, has values, is honest, is approachable, listens to others, comes to the table with solutions, not just problems. These are some of the qualities I would like to see in an individual who deserves MY vote and will represent our city effectively.
I would have loved to have seen a mayoral debate, along with a question and answer period for the councillors. Being able to see how a candidate handles a pressure situation, whether personal or work related, tells a lot about a person.
The all-candidates forum resolved one thing for me. I now know who is NOT going to get my vote. This is MY city. I live here and I have a voice. I too need to take responsibility for events that happen within this city. This is my chance and yours to make a difference. It is our right.
On Wednesday, October 26, take time to cast your vote. Remember, you don’t need to choose six councillors, although I believe there are enough quality individuals that have put their names forward to fill the positions of Mayor and councillors. I commend all those that chose to run for these positions and I wish them well on Election night.
Remember, voting for change isn’t always the answer if the person who promises change isn’t qualified. Let’s be proud of our city officials. Don’t vote for a candidate because you dislike’another candidate.
Vote for the one who will do the BEST job. Alberta wanted change, Toronto wanted change, the country wanted a change and now what are those voters saying? Something to think about!
