August 9, 2018 The Delta Optimist A9
Letters
Second place candidates could get elected too
Editor: In connection with the proposed referendum slated this fall, and the extensive debate on B.C.’s electoral reform, I would like to put forth my suggestion below. At the outset, I opine there is no need to overhaul B.C.’s electoral system completely. Some of the options suggested seem to be complex as the number of seats each party gets will have to be calibrated after the polling is over. This calibration can never be accurate because when “percentages” are involved, there are always “basis points,” needless to mention the time consuming process. In view of the aforesaid, I have an out-of-the-box suggestion which is fair, simple and cost-effective instead of the present first
past the post system. First scenario: If a candidate gets 50 per cent + 1 vote of the total votes polled, then he/she should be declared an outright winner. Next scenario: If a candidate does not get 50 per cent + 1 vote of the total votes polled, then both the first and second place candidates should be declared duly elected, but with a rider. The first place candidate will serve for the first halfterm, and the runner-up will serve out the remainder of the term. The runner-up will be entitled to his/her salary/ perquisites when he/she takes office only. Likewise, the retirement benefits of both will be half their entitlements. This will not put a burden on the exchequer.
In the event of any one such MLA winning outright (50 per cent + 1 vote) in the subsequent general elections, then they should get their full entitlements at that time. I understand that my suggestion may result in a change of the composition of the legislature in the mid-term, but so be it. We all know that in most of the sports/games, the runner-up too is rewarded, irrespective of the score. Furthermore, this electoral reform can be adopted globally as it will make elections more competitive because candidates will strive hard to reach out to all the constituents in the riding in order to cross the 50 per cent mark, thereby increasing the voter turnout. H. DeSousa
Cessford says his slate is doing more listening than talking
Editor: Re: Candidates must define their vision of Delta in the future, Community Comment, July 26 I feel it is important for the residents of Delta to be given as much information as possible before making a pivotal vote in October’s historic election. My team and I are guided by four key principles: continued community safety, fiscal responsibility, reduced bureaucratic hurdles for local businesses and improving relationships with our community
partners. These are the key strategic issues that will guide our leadership of our community … all of which hinges on listening. Which is what we are doing. We have not put forward a detailed set of decisions to what we will execute following a successful result. There is a reason for that - consultation means listening. As soon as a set of proposals has been presented, listening stops and telling starts. As mayor, I will
continue to listen and I will lead guided by clear principles. Our slate of candidates will be discussing more detailed plans as we get closer to election day. For now, we subscribe to the “two ears, one mouth” philosophy. We listen twice as much as we speak. We look forward to the balance of the campaign and election day on Saturday, Oct. 20. Jim Cessford Candidate for Mayor Independents Working For You
Extremists destroying our country
Editor: I often feel that I am a lone voice crying in the wilderness that Canada is being destroyed from within by a fifth column. It seems obvious to me that there are certain elements in Canada whose primary purpose is to open a wide wound in the country with
the full intent of marching in a horde of activists, idealists and extremists to take over the country and render it useless for serious habitation. Weekly we see negative people posing as Canadians who rant and rave and demand change; but that change is from
common sense and economic prosperity to out and out destruction of all that is Canada and has been built up from wilderness through the serious efforts of all inhabitants from day one. The navy term “The Rot Has Set In” is apropos. Bob Orrick
Thanks go out to kind woodcarver
Editor: Some months ago the bench at the lookout off Ferry Road was stolen. Then it was replaced by three patio chairs. Now a splendidly carved, West Coaststyle bench directs visitors to “Relax” and,
by inference, enjoy our mighty Fraser River estuary. Thank you kind woodcarver. Your skills and effort are much appreciated. Brian Redway
Simp2e, swe3t tre4t.
Vani2l4 Cone oKly
¢ 9R plus tax
eZcV
1MaN - 1MpN VaOiX aT tVe pZrTiYiIaTiKg McDoKaOd’s® rWsTaSrZnTs lJcZtWd iK RiYhNoKd, DeOtZ, TsZwQaGsWn aKd LaXnWr, BL. FoH a lUmUtWd tUmW oKly. LiNiT fJuH (4) CoKeG pWr cSsToNeH, pWr vUsUt. Not valid with any other meals, pairings or other offers. ©2018 McDonald’s.
Dr. Jonathan Brown, DMD and Dr. Will Gaede DDS Accepting New Patients Families Welcome
Family and Cosmetic Dentistry Orthodontic and Invisalign Treatment TMJ Therapy and Sedation Dentistry Implant Dentistry Botox Cosmetic™
1216 56 Street Tsawwassen myfantasticsmile.com 604.943.4112