It is that time again, municipal elections.  No matter if you like the candidates or their platforms, it is important to get out and vote.  It is our RIGHT, our DUTY, our OBLIGATION and our RESPONSIBILITY as Canadians.  If you don’t vote, you have no say in your community.  If you don’t vote, you don’t get to complain about the state of the community. If you do vote, you are participating in the democratic process, you are making a difference, showing you can take initiative to make change.

At the last municipal election in Spruce Grove, there was a mere 20% voter turn out.  This is a really disappointing statistic.  We are a thriving community, but don’t appear to want to be involved.  With a population nearing 28,000 the turnout translates into less than 6,000 residents voting.  Sad, very sad.

The government is elected by citizens.  Ultimately, we are helping to decide where our tax money goes.   We help decide on policies and programs that determine our wellbeing, such as: Community Vitality, Democratic Engagement, Education, Environment, Healthy Populations, Leisure and Culture, Standards of Living, and Time Use.

If you don’t agree with any of the candidates, you still need to vote.  How?  Spoil your ballot.  This will show that you protest the candidates, but you still get counted as having your say. Why should you vote?  Because it is your right and your responsibility.  There was a time that certain parts of the population were not allowed to vote.  By voting, you can honor those people that fought to bring the vote to women and minorities.  If we become apathetic towards out government and exercising our vote, we could end up with a government that is not representing the people, and would eventually evolve into a non-democratic society.

Every vote counts!  Some races may come down to a very tight margin where one or two votes can make a difference.

Think of voting as your civic obligation.  Get out to the poles on October 16, cast your vote, make a difference!