At the time this issue goes to the publisher (mid-October), we are pondering two important questions. The first impacts this newsletter directly, and is whether Canada Post will have resumed delivery service. Our October newsletter came out during the strike. While this does not impact those of you who receive the newsletter electronically or access it on the BRCA website, we know those who rely on receipt via mail delivery will have missed out. We provided copies at the Hall and Board members living in condo and apartment buildings tried to make copies available to their neighbours. Hopefully delivery services will have resumed by the time this issue is ready for distribution.
Also up in the air at this moment are the results of the October 20 municipal election. While we don’t know who the successful candidates will be, we do know that Ward 9 will have a new councillor representing our interests at City Hall. Thank you to the seven candidates who committed themselves to running for this position. Stepping forward to campaign for public office takes courage and conviction. To the new Ward 9 Councillor, the BRCA looks forward to establishing a strong, productive relationship with you during your first term. Thanks also to those of you who attended the Ward 9 Candidates Open House at the Hall on October 8 to meet the councillor hopefuls.
The campaigns for mayor, councillor, and school board trustee positions highlighted the serious issues facing residents of Calgary. Growth, community safety, affordable housing, transportation, fiscal responsibility, planning/zoning, maintenance of infrastructure, and education funding were all debated during the campaign and will need to be addressed by the new City Council and School Boards. With Calgary’s population projected to reach nearly two million by the time of the next municipal election, the need for strong, effective leadership is greater than ever, as is the need for residents to take an interest in the issues that concern us as a community and a city. Hopefully you demonstrated your willingness to make your voice heard by exercising your right to vote on October 20.
Alex MacWilliam
Click here to the Bridgeland/Riverside Community News home page for the latest Bridgeland/Riverside community updates.
