ELECTION COMMENTARY
Decision day is this Monday, when voters go to the polls to elect municipal councils and school trustees for the next four years.
With that term extended from three years, voting is more crucial because elected officials will serve for a longer time than in the past.
Voters in the two largest municipalities get a final opportunity this week to hear the local contenders during all-candidates forums for the Town of Stettler contenders tonight and for the County of Stettler on Thursday, with both sessions at Stettler Agriplex Pavilion Room from 7 to 9 p.m.
With just a few days to go before the election, some people have suggested that voters have already made up their mind about who they will support in the ballot box.
Candidates for school trustees for the Clearview School Division were already on stage last night for their all-candidates forum.
So, who will be the best candidates to lead local municipalities and school boards for the next four years?
Just like looking at a person applying for a job interview, a voter might simply look to experience.
However, re-electing incumbents might not always be good, either. Fresh blood and people with new ideas always keeps government bodies and organizations even more healthy.
With many incumbents likely in their final elections, now is a good time to fill councils and school board with new and energetic candidates.
Looking at the challengers, consider a new councillor or trustee who has renewed ideas and experience serving in various parts of the community.
What candidates know the most and best about the community to help make wise decisions and contribute the most effectively to move the council and community forward?
What candidate has a schedule that is most flexible to attend meetings and other functions as an elected official?
Looking at all the election signs around the town and county, what candidates have been most serious and active to promote their strengths, passions, skill, experiences and vision for the future of their community?
Most importantly is that voters get out to the polls on Monday or to advance polls and exercise your democratic right that people in so many countries around the world don’t have.
As many people have said in recent weeks, if you don’t vote Monday, you can’t complain in the next four years.