One week down, four years to go

Letters to the editor - It was a night of growing smiles and deepening frowns.

Last Tuesday, as residents throughout Bay St. George and across the province voted in municipal elections. Some people were relieved to have scored a seat on their community's council, while others had to resign themselves to the fact that they didn't have enough support from fellow residents to make it on council.

Regardless, now's the time to focus on the task at hand, which is to see that our communities are run in efficient and transparent manners.

While each community has their own set of problems and difficulties to work through, the Georgian thought it would provide readers with a general list of topics to keep in mind when talking with councillors and mayors.

Roadways and sidewalks. Look around your community and ask - is it safe to drive down the street, in both the day and night? Are there potholes that just can't be ignored anymore? Do pedestrians have to jump out of the way when a vehicle passes by? Once you see a problem, bring your concerns to council.

Development. How accommodating is your council to established and would-be developers? Are permits relatively easy to obtain? New houses and businesses is a good indication there's confidence in the future of the community. And an increase of residences and businesses also means increased tax revenues for the town.

Clean water. How many times do hear about some third-world country that lacks drinkable or safe water for its residents? Well folks, it's 2009 and there are communities in the area (and throughout the province) that lack this basic human necessity. Let's see to it that our councils are working with the provincial government (and whoever else) to see that this problem gets addressed in every community lacking access to clean and safe water.

Beautification. Just how clean is your community? Are there chip bags blowing through town? How about cigarette butts on the ground? How is garbage collected, anyways? Talk with council to see if there are any projects planned to make your community as pretty as possible.

Youth. You know what? When kids are idle, they sometimes get themselves into trouble. And that means problems for the whole community. Is your council enacting any sports or social programs that will keep youth engaged and out of trouble? This might mean a bike or skateboard park; and while you may not be in favour of such a green space, it's a hell of a lot better than burnt out buildings or beat up mail boxes.

Seniors. This group needs tailored services, too. What's being done to keep seniors active and involved in the community? Do they require any special attention due to healthcare or social needs? Seniors built and sustained communities over the years, it's time to say thanks and help them benefit from the fruits of their labour.

This is just a sampling of what to ask of your new council. Keeping an open dialogue with them will benefit both you and your fellow residents, and even the council itself.

Christopher Vaughan