If you own property in Squamish but don't live here permanently, you may be denied a say in the 2011 municipal elections.
During the Tuesday, March 23 Committee of the Whole meeting, council for the District of Squamish supported a motion to limit voting eligibility to permanent residents only.
Tomorrow, council will ratify its decision in its regular business meeting.
During discussions on who should be allowed to run for council March 23, Coun. Doug Race abruptly changed the scope of the election reform talks and moved that only individuals who normally reside in the municipality be allowed to vote for council members.
Without further discussion, Coun. Patricia Heintzman seconded the motion and it was carried five to two with councillors Rob Kirkman and Paul Lalli opposed. Kirkham and Lalli did not elaborate on their opposition to the motion.
Residents from the community expressed various points of view in a brief poll held by The Chief last week.
Keeley Higgins said she thought "there would be issues that do affect them and they should have a vote." Andrew Newman echoed the sentiment, saying he "doesn't agree at all" with property owners not being allowed to vote.
Other residents felt that only those living in Squamish knew who would do the best job on council, so it should be up to them.
"The people [living] in Squamish should really have the best choice on who is running for council and who they want in council, so I think it's fair," said Kiley Larson.
Council will discuss and potentially approve the motion tomorrow (April 6) at the council meeting at 6 p.m.
