Don’t be fooled by the lack of campaign signs in Squamish (there are a few) – the provincial election is less than three weeks away.
Despite being a relatively small town, we could make a real difference. But we need to get out and vote.
Squamish residents have a lot of power in who will be representing our diverse riding, West Vancouver-Sea to Sky, according to Kaija Belfry Munroe, a Quest University Canadian studies professor The Chief previously interviewed.
In 2013, there were more registered voters in Squamish than West Vancouver (12,621 versus 9,871, respectively), but West Van has more sway because they show up to the polls in larger numbers.
So, even though more Squamish residents voted NDP (47 per cent) compared to Liberals (38 per cent), the Liberals continue to have a stronghold in our riding in large part because the majority of West Van residents, 74 per cent, voted Liberal.
Squamish has had low voter turnout for years. Let’s change this on May 9.
No matter who you are voting for, let’s get out and vote. We can do much better than last time, when only 37 per cent of registered voters did so.
We’re talking specifically to younger people, a group that historically doesn’t vote much. A large proportion of Squamish is younger, so they could have a real sway.
In West Vancouver, on the other hand, there are a higher number of older people who are more likely to head to the polls.
An all candidates debate is taking place on Tuesday, April 25 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at Eagle Eye Theatre. This is where you can hear what the candidates have to say.
It’s up to all Squamish residents to put their say forward in who will be representing us.
We have such different needs in Squamish than in other communities in the Sea to Sky Corridor (we are growing really fast, for example) and we need someone to represent our voice.
It doesn’t matter who you want in power – Liberals, NDP, Greens or Independent – take an hour or so out of your day and vote on May 9.
If you work, your employer must give you time off.
Voting stations will be set up at 212-39012 Discovery Way near Walmart and at Brennan Park Recreation Centre.
