With local elections looming next month we're getting our game plan together to cover what looks to be a race for some hotly contested seats in both Sechelt and Gibsons.
The final day for nominations is Oct. 14, so we don't have a complete political picture yet, but you can be sure we'll be bringing you information about candidates in every edition between that date and election day Nov. 19.
While some incumbents have been vocal about seeking re-election, others have avoided answering direct questions about their intentions. It seems they are playing some sort of game that I don't completely understand.
Surely by now everyone who is thinking about running has made the decision in their minds, if not on paper yet. If they haven't, they probably shouldn't be running at all, because they'll be so far behind when campaigning officially starts.
Some candidates have already booked ads, purchased signs and set up social media campaigns, giving them the leg up on any competition that is still debating the idea of running.
While technically candidates have until next Friday to make up their minds, I think the majority of people know, and some just want to hold their cards close to their chests for now. But soon every card should be on the table.
In the weeks to come we'll feature every candidate who is seeking election in Sechelt, Gibsons, Sunshine Coast Regional District, Islands Trust and School District No. 46. We'll cover all-candidates forums and do our best to ensure you know where the candidates stand on important issues affecting residents.
So far it looks like there will be multiple hopefuls running for almost every seat. This election promises many choices, and voters may end up with information overload.
I'm of the opinion that more information is always better and more choices make for a better competition, so I can't wait to see how it all unfolds when the final names are in and the race gets underway.
My hope is that everyone aged 18 and over takes the time to read up on the candidates running in their area and gets to know what they stand for. Then to me it's as simple as picking the candidate whose values best suit your own and taking five minutes to make a mark next to his or her name on Nov. 19.
It's important, of course, to know where that candidate stands on issues close to you, but if your values align, you're likely to agree with the direction that mayor, councillor, director or school trustee candidate takes.
Municipal election day comes only once every three years, but it's a day when average citizens are given power over their future. Once we make the decision about who we want to represent us, we hand over the reins and take a back seat, then wait three more years to make a change if it needs to be made.
For those three years, our elected officials will make decisions on our behalf that will affect our health, economy, safety, education, finances and the future of our community.
It seems like an important decision and one we should not take lightly, but the majority of Coasters don't care. Only 38 per cent of eligible Coast voters took the time to vote in the last municipal election.
The number is a sad reflection of an apathetic public, and one we have to change.
This year take the time, get informed and vote. On Nov. 19, you have the power.
