And So It Begins.....

To all my bl-eaders: health and happiness in 2010.
The editor of the late, lamented, satirical magazine, Frank, coined a well-appointed phrase to describe election campaigns: "the running of the reptiles".
And given that this is the first day of January in a municipal election year, January being the month when candidates for city council normally declare themselves, we can safely say the "reptiles" are in the gate, waiting for the starter's signal.
Councillor Alex Cullen has already made a declaration of sorts -- but he could back off, especially if current provincial Municipal Affairs Minister Jim Watson decides to seek the mayor's chair. Watson and Cullen would split the liberal/leftie vote, leaving the field clear for Mayor Larry or some other right- of -centre candidate to fill the position. No doubt political strategists for the Cullen and Watson camps have already put their heads together to discuss who has the better chance of unseating the incumbent.
Rumor has it that at least eight of the current councillors will be replaced. At least one has already indicated he plans to retire. Others may choose to go this route too -- retirement being preferable to a trouncing at the polls. Let's see some new faces: some new blood; candidates from among the real movers and shakers in this community; candidates with solid business backgrounds, records of success in their chosen fields; candidates who are prepared to serve two terms and no more.
October 25 is the big day. That's when taxpayers have the opportunity to exact their revenge on a council which, since amalgamation, has squandered taxpayers' money; turned Ottawa into the highest-taxed municipality in the country; turned ratepayers into paupers; where homeowners' property tax bills exceed their mortgage payments; where seniors on pensions have to sell up and move to Smith's Falls or some other location where property tax is still affordable.
It will be an exciting year. Nothing of import will be accomplished at city hall as the "reptiles" attempt to solidify their positions in their wards-- but what the hey -- there's nothing new about that ! That's all this gang has done since amalgamation.
If you're looking to make a New Year's resolution, resolve to vote on October 25. By making the individual effort, you help to ensure a large turnout at the polls. Become a "revolting ratepayer" by joining the growing movement for change at city hall. Better yet, run for office. You are an army of one !

New posts usually on Fridays