“People have the power” is a song about taking responsibility for what our government does in our name.
So if you don't like how the roads are paved, how the snow is plowed, how the trails are maintained or how expensive it is to live here, now is the time to become engaged with your community.
It’s time to stand up and be counted. How?
For a few, it will mean allowing their name to stand for school board or city council in the municipal election on Oct. 15.
But for the vast majority of Yellowknifers, it will mean casting a vote. And yes, every vote does count. So it would be amazing if this fall sees more than the 55.4 per cent of you who in 2015 exercised your democratic right.
The election race has begun, with two councillors — Rebecca Alty and Adrian Bell — announcing they will run for mayor. A few other councillors have also indicated they will seek re-election, while some will bow out.
It’s expected that a handful of newcomers will test their political skills, all attempting to snag one of the eight council seats, or the mayor’s chair.
Yellowknifer today presents one of our full edition specials, this time on the municipal election. We’re doing so in an effort to provide readers with information they can use in the coming weeks and months when discussing city issues around the supper table, or in coffee shops or on social media.
And what are some of those issues? The cost of living is always an issue in Yellowknife. Anything city hall can do to keep taxes and fees in check is helpful. But candidates must be able to present reasoned proposals, costing out any tax-reduction proposals.
Social issues are also pressing in this city. And while the current council is making some progress with homelessness and housing, anyone walking down any core-area street can see there is a lot of work remaining. Are there any quick fixes? No. But we need the next council to keep their foot on that gas pedal.
On the topic of downtown, the rapid deterioration of Centre Square Mall, along with the nearby vacant lots purchased by the city, needs to be addressed. The next council must take firm action on that file, working with the landlords of the place and coming up with a plan that incorporates Centre Square and the vacant properties. We have long recommended a Dene cultural centre should be the centerpiece.
The business community as a whole needs to be nurtured, as online shopping continues to erode sales. Anything that can be done to make the city truly open for business must be considered.
Other concerns, as confirmed in a 2017 Citizen Survey conducted for the city by Ipsos Public Affairs, include: fire/ambulance services; quality of the tap water; upkeep of arenas; road/sidewalk maintenance; litter control; good walking trails/bike routes; providing access to natural areas/lakes and having alternative options for waste diversion.
This election will certainly see debate over pressing the GNWT about retail options for legalized cannabis sales and enhancing Yellowknife’s reputation as a tourist destination.
A key issue will also be restoring confidence in city administration, after the bylaw department and leaked internal email scandals that have dominated the headlines in recent months.
This city needs a city council — and school boards, for that matter — comprised of people who are ready to work hard and focus on issues that matter. They need to listen and react.
What we don’t need are showboats simply running for office to be able to increase their public stature.
Or to simply use their time on council as a springboard for higher office, as is often done.
So for those who want to serve, we urge you to run. For those who want to be good citizens, please read up on the issues, learn about the candidates and cast an informed vote come this fall.