Editor,
I voted this week. I went in the wrong door at the former Edwards building. Gave me a full picture of the logistics of running an election.
In addition to the many workers in the voting area, a massive room full of material for each poll in Bruce Grey Owen Sound was being sorted by more paid staff.
Multiplying the costs of this by 124 gave a frustrating visual on the money being spent on an unnecessary election. An election motivated by Doug Ford’s goal to increase his majority in government and secure another 4 years as our premier.
Ford wants to get out in front of potential corruption charges related to the RCMP Greenbelt investigation expected within weeks. He wants to cash in on the $200 cheques Ontarians are conveniently receiving now. And he is concerned about the impact of a Poilievre victory and the buyer’s remorse Canadians would soon feel about that.
Against this backdrop of frustration, I am inspired by the potential to elect an MPP in Bruce Grey Owen Sound who can cut through partisan vitriol and advantage our riding.
Regardless of political affiliation, I would urge voters to consider the impact Selwyn Hicks, as MPP, can have on our riding. His priorities, network and passion to advocate on behalf of constituents who experience the full range of challenges and good fortune, is what we need here now.
Someone who has experienced abject poverty, really knows the importance of affordable housing and social service support. Someone who has worked in organizations helping homeless youth, knows the importance of mental health. Someone who has been elected municipally at the local and county level has a readymade network and local knowledge to get things done for our riding across party lines. That someone is Selwyn Hicks.
While Selwyn has very impressive professional credentials, this is not something he highlights or has shaped who he is as a person. His collective life experience has enabled him to leverage his background, education and experience as he serves his community. His moral compass does not waver. He is driven to help others and is not motivated by personal gain.
BGOS would be well served with Selwyn Hicks as our MPP.
Mary Anne Alton, Owen Sound
