voting is the first step

I am both a little disappointed and relieved. I'll continue to be involved in the Lasqueti community, and look forward to not having to make difficult decisions as part of the Lasqueti Trust Committee, or having to travel off-island, though I did very much enjoy time on many other Gulf Islands, and I hope to encourage closer relationships between them.

Voting is only the first step, and only a small one, in being involved in community political life. Community members must keep informed about what each of their local governments (Islands Trust and Powell River Regional District) bodies are planning, and to let their representatives know what they support and don't support, and what they'd like them to do. (The same is true for provincial and federal governments and elected officials, but it's a lot further away, and more work.)

I'm a big believer that community discussions - exchanges of ideas and opinions; listening to each other - make for a much better community. Our web site and email list and the monthly Isle and Times make this pretty easy to do from home. As well there is the small, solid core of Lasqueti Trust Committee meeting attenders, and the occasional public meeting on whatever topic seems to need discussion.  I urge everyone to participate whenever they are interested, and particularly if they see something they are not sure about, or outright oppose or support.

Thank you to all voters, and especially to all community participants and activists, which includes nearly everyone.