Today is your day Boomer! I may know a few things about politics and government being a Social Studies teacher and elected school trustee for 35 years. Here is my take on the big recent referendum in my home town (Summerland, BC) on a new $50 million pool facility. Community members, including many Boomers, voted 58% NO and 42% YES in a very definitive ballot. The population was informed over many months, debated seriously all the issues, and voiced their concerns and support in a variety of ways like social media. This is a good way for politicians to gage support on big issues and projects, but it is too time-consuming and expensive for most municipal decisions. That must be left to the faith we put in our elected officials like mayor. After this NO vote, city council must go back and consider "other" options....like fixing the old pool. It should be less expensive, I hope. One other thing: only 46% of Summerland's eligible voters cast ballots and experts consider this a good turnout. Yup, 54% didn't have the time, inclination, or knowledge to voice their opinion on a small piece of paper. It's sad, but true. Important decisions like a big pool project are being left to the minority....those people that apparently "care". By the way, the largest percentage of people who vote are Boomers and/or seniors. Way to go Boomers! It is our civic duty to participate in this process. And once again, the will of the people and democracy ruled the day! Cheers.

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