Direct Election of the Regional Chair- Durham
Tuesday, April 3rd, 2012The Region of Durham is holding a public meeting tomorrow morning at 10 am, I am taking the day off work to attend.
This is in regards to the issue of Direct Election of the Regional Chair position.
I have a confession to make. In 2006 when only Ajax, Oshawa and Pickering had the question on the ballot, I voted No. Let me explain. I thought at least the Chair should come from elected Councillors though.
I was under the impression the Regional Chair was a figurehead and only chaired meetings and was like the Speaker of the house per say, I know it sounds silly but really what do other people know about his role, the average citizen , of which I was in 2006 before opening this blog. I did not think he had a tie breaking vote though like the elected Speaker in Ottawa.
I was not as politically aware in either Ajax or Durham politics. I don’t vote yes for something I don’t understand.
Then…. I learned the Regional Chair moves motions and has a lot more power then I knew so in 2010 I did vote Yes.
Over 200K in salary, moves motions, sits on every Committee, should be elected by me.
Others say- “Why not appoint from sitting Mayors or Council?”
** I don’t get to vote for anyone but a single Ward and Regional Councillor plus my own Mayor.
**Local candidates run local elections in scope.
Urge your Council to support this Democratic method of Selection of the Regional Chair.
I will endorse the site :
www.accountabilitystartsatthetop.com It’s my job as a citizen do this advocacy.
If you can’t make it to the meeting tomorrow, let your views be known to Councillors, your own and WHITBY’S !!!!!!!!!!!!!