Around the office we're starting to get election fever. It's exciting to have such a diverse group of people vying for public office on the Coast.
In Sechelt a new group called the Sechelt Electors' Association with the nifty acronym of SEA has fielded a full slate of candidates. They have former Sunshine Coast Regional District director Adrian Belshaw running and five hopefuls taking a stab at councillor positions. And although their website says they don't dictate any party line to their members, we have to ask: why belong then?
The coming weeks will be interesting ones. This year would be a good one to take in as many candidate forums as possible. Get out and ask questions - some of the answers might just surprise you. Better the surprise before you vote than after.
We're also happy with the sheer number of candidates for the position of school trustee. We, along with current trustee Greg Russell, thought it disgraceful that four of the seven positions in the last election were by acclamation. With the largest budget of any elected group on the Sunshine Coast to administer and our children's education to consider, this is one powerful board. Again we urge you to listen, find out what the folks running hold dear, and make an informed decision.
Gibsons is unique in local governments. Not one of its current councillors is trying for another term. Most, citing home and family concerns, have opted out of the political race. The exception is Coun. Angela Letman. She's decided to take on the current two-term Mayor Barry Janyk. Want to know why? Go out to the all-candidates' forums and find out. The first is Nov. 2 at Cedars Inn at 6:30 p.m. Go - be informed.
The regional district is a mixed bag this election. Area A will again have John Rees for director by acclamation and the same goes for newcomer to Area D, Donna Shugar. Areas B and F each have two candidates trying to be director in their respective areas. In Area B, current director John Marian faces challenger Garry Nohr. In Area F, Bill Hubbs and Lee Turnbull are facing off. Area E is the most hotly contested, with three candidates, Rob Corlett, Lorne Lewis and Eleanora Molnar on the ballot.
Elections, don't you just love them? We do.
