At the recent candidate’s forum, I stated that democracy is under attack. That is not an abstract concern reserved for distant places or national politics. Democracy depends on people participating, here at home, in the decisions that affect their everyday lives.
One of the most important ways to do that is simple: vote.
In the last municipal election, 49 per cent of Fort Frances voters cast a ballot. While that was above the provincial average, we can and should do better. Almost half of eligible voters in Fort Frances did not take part in choosing the people who would represent them and shape the town’s future.
This election gives us a real choice. More candidates are running than there are positions to fill. In some municipalities, candidates have been acclaimed, leaving voters with no contest and no real opportunity to participate in democracy. Here in Fort Frances, we have the privilege and responsibility of deciding who will serve.
The candidates have done their part. They have allowed their names to stand and are willing to serve and do the work. They have answered difficult questions, shared their ideas, and opened themselves to scrutiny. There are campaign signs across the town, and candidates’ platforms are available online, in brochures and through the local media. They have accepted that their decisions may be challenged and criticized. That is part of public life, and it takes courage and commitment.
Now it is up to each of us to do our part. Take the time to learn about the candidates, the issues, and the candidates’ platforms. Consider what matters most to you and your family, then decide to cast your ballot.
Local elections can be easy to overlook. They rarely attract the same attention as provincial or federal campaigns, but the decisions made by municipal politicians are close to home. They influence the services, priorities, and community planning that residents encounter in their daily lives. The people that you elect to council will make decisions on behalf of our community, and the outcome will affect all of us.
Voting does not mean that you must agree with every decision or position taken by council. It does mean taking part in the process that chooses who makes those decisions. It also gives elected officials a clearer understanding of the community that they serve. When more residents vote, the result reflects a broader range of voices and experiences and gives a stronger consensus and mandate to govern.
I want to encourage every eligible resident of Fort Frances to vote in this municipal election. Do not assume that your vote will not matter. Do not assume that someone else will choose for you. Voting has been made as convenient as possible. You do not even have to leave your home to vote. You can vote online, by telephone or in person. For information on how to vote, go to: fortfrances.ca/elections. Make your voice part of the result.
If you choose not to cast a ballot, you give up the direct opportunity to help shape the council that will serve Fort Frances for the next four years. Your participation strengthens the public’s voice, the successful candidates’ mandate and the legitimacy of the decisions that follow.
Democracy is precious; it is not something that we can take for granted. It depends on all of us, on candidates willing to serve and residents willing to participate.
Fort Frances has candidates willing to stand and to do the work, and because of them, voters have a choice. Let us honour that commitment and make the most of this opportunity to shape the future of Fort Frances.
Please vote.
