St. Albertans are happy. The annual survey reflects an overall satisfaction with city services at 87 per cent. We have a rich history and well-established social fabric. Most St. Albertans are pleased with their community and the decisions made by council. Sure our property tax is too high, but that is the primary issue in most communities at election time.
We have had no scandalous issues at city hall and have an incumbent mayor seeking re-election who has proven to be capable and popular. There is a good chance that voter turnout could drop below 30 per cent, as it did in Edmonton in 2007.
In this election, there is a group of candidates who have a very narrow focus, centred on cutting taxes through drastically reduced services and re-opening the contentious affordable housing debate at infill areas. They are supported and funded by a few different special interest groups. They are well organized and ready to mobilize to get the necessary voter turnout to defeat all candidates who do not align with their views. And if voters do not show up to vote on Oct. 18, it is possible that they could achieve their goals.
St. Albert voters need to become informed. They should consider what has made our community great and what will be our defining attributes as we continue to grow. Then, look to those candidates who share a similar vision. I personally believe that we have a mayor and a few incumbent councillors who still have the energy and ideas to lead our council. In addition, there are a few newcomers like Cathy Heron and Wes Broadhead who appear to have a well-balanced approach and some depth to their views. These two would bring complementary skills to a council that could represent the majority of our residents.
St. Albertans should take caution. They may perceive that their vote will not change the outcome in the next election. However, there are a number of candidates who are counting that the mainstream St. Albertan will not cast their ballot — those mainstream voters who recognize our enhanced programs and services, use our facilities with their families and value our city’s beauty. If less then 14,000 voters show up, it may not be a reflection of how St. Albert truly feels about their council and a more radical group could find themselves leading.
By neglecting to vote, be prepared for a change of council at city hall. And their replacements may abandon what made our city terrific, nor would they have the right approach to govern the majority of our residents going forward. Please get out and vote.
Justin Rousseau, St. Albert
