Dear editor,
Comox Valley Common Sense may have had an impact on the election, either positive or negative whichever way you look at it.
However, is it any different when other ‘special-interest’ groups send a letter to their union members or employees on who they think should become elected? Do you not think that has an impact? It happens in every election, so get a grip.
Further, I don’t think for one minute there were any paperclips, pencils, Kleenex, notepads or desk space used from Minister Don McRae’s constituency office for the municipal election. He has more class and is much more honourable than that, and I’m sure the Common Sense group would not abuse his position in any way, shape or form as it would impact him in a negative manner.
The only problem I had with the Common Sense group is the fact that I did not receive a questionnaire, and the fact they did have my e-mail address but did not post it with other candidates on their web site.
Why? I have no idea.
As I said throughout the campaign, I do not belong to any special-interest group nor the ‘old boys’ net, as I didn’t want to owe anything to anyone if I became elected. (Maybe that was why.).
It's unfortunate that there is not more interest by the community in the government that directly affects us all; the municipal government. In these stressful economic times it's shameful we have people acclaimed and therefore are not forced to share their platform (if they actually have one), with their constituents.
Maybe it's all of the abuse some people think they will be exposed to if they run in an election. It's not for everyone, but surely there must be some of you that can take a stand.
There's no way one can convince me all of those who were acclaimed are just that good everyone was happy with their decisions/actions in the past three years.
And, I cannot fathom why such a small percentage of eligible voters actually cast a ballot. My thought, don't complain if you don't vote.
However, now that the democratic process is over, I’d sincerely like to congratulate all of those who were elected in Courtenay, Comox and Cumberland and thank you for becoming engaged in your community. I'd also like to thank those who helped with my campaign, it was very much appreciated.
Jean Rowe,
Courtenay
Editor's note: Jean Rowe ran unsuccessfully for Courtenay council.