IAN THORPE

The deadline for filing candicacy papers is now past, and a final list of candidates for civic election positions is now determined. In Nanaimo, there are four candidates for Mayor, including incumbent Leonard Krog. For council, there are forty listed candidates, including seven incumbents (me being one of them!). While it is encouraging to see people wanting to get involved in civic government, the large number of candidates unfortunately makes it more difficult for voters

It was my pleasure today to attend the annual Nanaimo, Duncan and District Labour Council picnic at Transfer Beach, Ladysmith. I want to thank the Labour Council for holding this annual family event, and also for their endorsement of my election campaign. I am a former member of CUPE 606, and a long-time member of the BC Teachers' Federation, so I am a supporter of the union cause. I value the Council for fighting for worker rights, fair wages, safer work places, and a bet

A reminder that eligible residents who wish to vote in the October 17 civic election have the option of voting by mail ballot instead of voting in person. Applications to vote by mail can be obtained from the Legislative Services Department at City Hall, by email at elections@nanaimo.ca or by downloading the Application to Vote By Mail form from the City's website. A mail ballot must be received by the Chief Election Officer before close of voting (8pm) on October 17 in ord

As we head into September, the election season leading up to October 17 really gets underway. There are some important dates for candidates and voters to be aware of... September 1 is the first date that candidates can file their nomination papers at City Hall. Application for voter mail ballot packages also opens for voters who cannot vote in person. The nomination period ends on September 11, at which time the Chief Election Officer will declare the list of official cand

As we head into campaigning for the upcoming municipal election on October 17, I need to start by making something clear. There was a recent editorial in the Victoria Times Colonist newspaper which stated "Political parties have no place in municipal politics." I totally agree. Political party politics based on ideology, or block voting on any issue, make for extremely poor governance. We benefit from rational, independent candidates who think for themselves on each issue

Last week I picked up my election campaign package from City Hall. I am looking forward to running for re-election on October 17, aiming at a fourth term as Councillor for the City of Nanaimo. It is an honour to have the position of Councillor, and I believe that I still have much to contribute in terms of service to the citizens of our city. In the days and weeks ahead I will be using this blog site to provide my thoughts on the upcoming election, and to talk about some of