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2 Friday, October 26, 2018 brooklintowncrier.com "Proud to be a Brooklinite" Founded in 2000 and published 24 times per year. Editor, Richard Bercuson 613-769-8629 editorofbtc@gmail.com The Brooklin Town Crier is locally owned and operated and is a publication of Appletree Graphic Design Inc. Next Issue: Friday, November 9, 2018 Deadline: Friday, November 2, 2018 Less than half the picture: By Richard Bercuson Signs - Be gone! In the days leading to Monday's election, there were sightings of otherwise normal individuals speed-walking from house to house, armed with leaflets and door hangers. The message was clear: Vote for the face on the flyer. The idea was that exhorting more people to head to the polls would lead to votes. Supporters darted across streets, danced over lawns, and hopped up and down steps, all the while discovering the wonders of walking as both exercise and a terrific weight loss plan. It was kind of candidates to leave me material imploring me to vote for them, so, to all who stuffed my door/door handle, thanks. As for your signs, no, the sheer number you planted (or didn't) had no impact on me. Some candidates had fewer signs but located them strategically based on, well, I'm not sure what... was it where we turn corners the most? Some had few or none. For instance, what was mayoral can- didate Andrea Kennedy thinking by having none? If you're serious about running, especially against a popular incumbent, you pretty much need to get with the program. Once in, try to change the sign bylaw. Then again, she did make a point. No signs and nearly 29% voted for her. Was she on to something? Similarly, Bill Windrem here in the North Ward had a dearth of signs, save for in front of the library. He still garnered over 27% of the vote. Evidently people liked his message and cared less about signage. However...however!...I'd made my decisions based on other factors. I pride myself on not being a sucker for marketing ploys, which means signs, sign colours and pretty leaflets weren't going to sway me. I did what I'd hope any responsible voter would do: I read up on the candidates. Where? Online, in the BTC (geez, we had great coverage, didn't we? pat - pat), and through the airwaves. Pardon the vernacular, but we don't need no stinkin' signs. (I could do without the leaflets, too.) They're a nuisance, an eyesore, sometimes a traffic viewing hazard and beg for abuse from anyone with a grudge or nothing to do at 2 am. I'd rather candidates held regular town forums or debates, be interviewed on radio or TV, and have profiles in print or online. Dump the signs, both printed and homemade. Not on private property nor town property, nor anywhere. Though name recognition is important, anyone who votes according to signs is short-changing themselves and perhaps even mocking the democratic process. You want to have a say in how we're governed? Take a few minutes to learn about the candidates. A sign tells you nothing, as does the absence of one. So, phew, we're now done with elections. Well, till the federal one next year when MP candidates will festoon our streets with these blights all over again. Wonderful. North ward column By Steve Lee I want to take a moment to sincerely thank all those residents who supported me throughout this election. I am very honoured to have been given the opportunity to represent you and the North Ward on council. While canvassing for the election, I had the opportunity to be at the doors and speak with you, the residents, to find out the issues that concern you the most. What I heard over and over again is that the majority of residents want to ensure that taxes do not go up unnecessarily and t their tax dollars are spent wisely on services they need. I have also heard about the need for increased focus on job creation and new business here in town and in Whitby. There is also a growing concern with speeding, increased traffic congestion and poor transit in the area. I do not want to waste any time and wish to continue the hard work with the Mayor and the rest of council to provide strong community representation on these or any issue that could affect you and your family, by making sure the North Ward voice is heard. I assure you that my commitment to Whitby and Brooklin runs deep and I will continue to make our town the best place to live, work, and raise a family. Thank you again for all of your support.