democracy
What are Surrey’s most pressing issues? [poll]
August 23, 2011 | Paul HillsdonWith the municipal election just a few months away, politicians and interest groups will soon be presenting their visions for the future of Surrey. In the spirit of direct democracy, I thought I’d present the question to you directly: What … Read More
Watts champions online voting
January 12, 2011 | Paul HillsdonAccording to a story from the Vancouver Sun, Surrey and Vancouver are studying the introduction of online voting, a move that could have significant repercussions for voter turnout, citizen engagement, and democratic reform across the country.
“It’s clear that … Read More
Exclusive: Interview with ex-councillor Judy Higginbotham
October 1, 2010 | Paul HillsdonCivic Surrey recently had an hour long, exclusive interview with ex-councillor Judy Higginbotham, who is likely to run again in the next election. We caught up with her to chat about politics in the City and her history as a councillor. Thanks again to Judy for taking the time. The full audio interview is attached, while I’ve included select excerpts below for those who want the gist of the conversation. Continue on for more about Mayor Watts, transportation, heritage, and building a stadium in Surrey.
On running for re-election in 2011:
“I am leaning towards running, no doubt. I think there is an expectation that I will. When I did take time off, that did not mean that not running was out of the equation, what it just meant was that I needed time out… I miss getting involved in making decisions.”
On democracy in the City and the leadership style of Mayor Watts:
“I would run as an independent, and I would run as an individual who is transparent, who listens to the community and who offers a passion and a love of Surrey… In some instances, there’s an organization and I think some may have lost that connection with the community… I’ve sometimes made tough decisions. I don’t go with the flow, I don’t jump on bandwagons and I think that each and every council needs an individual who is not afraid to speak up for issues of importance… What I see missing often on council is a chance for real democracy and real debate on issues… I think the way the Mayor is handling it [being Mayor] is extremely positive. I think she’s done a very good job, but I think there’s always room for, I believe, the opportunity to make a difference and to maybe sometimes challenge some of the issues and I don’t see that happening on council perhaps as much as it could be.”
