Editorial
We began our journey as https://local-news.ca in January 2021 with the intention to provide local Burlington news by reporting in a trusted, fair way. We bring that same approach to the 2022 municipal election. Our coverage is intended to be sure you know how to get on the local voters list, when and where you can cast your ballot, and to help you get to know the candidates so that your votes are informed.
We live in a democracy that relies on eligible voters casting their votes so that the elected officials represent the voters. Burlington voters will elect a mayor, ward councillor, school board representative, and will vote for a regional chair for Halton Region. Each of these roles is important. YOUR vote is important. We have 19 candidates for councillor, five candidates for mayor, 23 candidates for English public and Catholic school boards, and three candidates for regional chair. Candidates have done their part by putting their names forward and they are working hard to learn more about the issues and the community, and to share their perspectives on websites and social media.
COVID-19 did not allow most people to get the in-person time at City Hall that they would usually have before an election. If you feel a bit disconnected, we understand. Now is the time to focus.
We’ve started our interviews with the candidates running for councillor who are not currently on council. We are continuing that coverage throughout the voting period. Rick Craven, former councillor in Ward 1, brings his experience with the City of Burlington and Region of Halton to his articles. Kim Phillips, former city clerk, brings her Burlington experience to the articles, answering questions that residents have wondered about. Regional chair and mayoral candidates have been invited to participate in Place Makers with Blair Lancaster, a podcast hosted by Blair, former councillor in Ward 6. You can find her first episode with Andrea Grebenc, candidate for regional chair by clicking here. We are also sharing updates on Facebook and Twitter, at localnewsburl.
We understand the city’s services, we care about Burlington, and our team of volunteers believes we need more information available most of the time. We are pleased that the Chamber of Commerce has hosted a debate for the candidates for mayor. We appreciate candidates who are hosting open houses so that residents can meet them and become better informed. It is unfortunate that we don’t have ward open houses for all candidates to attend.
We have heard concerns about the use of contact lists collected by current members of council and former representatives at other levels of government. We see lots of election signs in the community and lots of photos on social media, where candidates are attending community events. Reach out to the candidates if you have questions. Our advice to readers at this point is simple. Don’t believe candidates who promise the impossible. There will be more tax increases. There will be more tall buildings. There will be more traffic. These are the realities of a growing, modern city.
The 2018 election saw two members of the previous city council returned to office. Five new councillors joined Burlington’s council. Voters will decide what happens in this election.
