October 27, 2022
Municipal elections were held on Monday all across Ontario. We now have newly elected local municipal governments across communities in Ontario! We want to take a moment to congratulate all municipal officials in their respective election bids, whether they are newly elected or re-elected to new terms.
Across many communities, municipal elections reported having lower-than-expected voter turnout rates (between 20% and 35%). Municipal governments are an important part of the Canadian political system, and it is important to elect candidates who will represent our respective interests if possible. Municipal governments not only make decisions about services provided to their communities, such as power, garbage collection, water, sewage, public transit and community spaces (like parks and recreation centres), but they also make decisions about local schools and curriculum, zoning and construction bi-laws, police services, and health services. They are responsible for helping build inclusive communities by making public transit, the design of public paths and spaces, public facilities and services and community events more accessible.
Some have suggested that voter fatigue may have played a role in lower turnout rates. We also know that voter registration is different from provincial and federal elections, including documentation requirements.
As always, we would love to hear from people who use our services on their experiences in voting or not voting. If you know someone in your network who would like to share their thoughts and who might be open to having a conversation about their experiences, please reach out to us by emailing quality@christian-horizons.org or by contacting Justin Radstake, Manager of Quality Assurance.