Shuswap residents voted for no incorporation
April 20th, 2022 as advance voting, and Saturday, April 30, 2022, as general voting residents of Sorrento and Blind Bay approach the referendum about the proposed municipality of the District of Sorrento- Blind Bay located in Electoral Area C of the Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD). The referendum list held on the following question:” Are you in favor of the incorporation of the municipality of the District of Sorrento- Blind Bay?”
Almost 50% of eligible voters, that found the time and participated in this referendum 2 027 responded “NO” and 272 “YES” to the referendum question. Jennifer Sham, Chief Election Officer said: “We are very pleased with the number of citizens who engaged with this process and took the time to cast their ballot.” She continued:” The turnout clearly showed the level of interest in the community and that they appreciated the chance to have their say on this important decision.”
Based on the result of the referendum, the CSRD will proceed with the default option, dividing Electoral Area C into two separate Electoral Areas, each to be represented by its own elected Director. This will take place as part of the October 15, 2022 General Local Government Elections.
Photo source: shuswaplakemotel.com
People clearly decided they prefer to stay unincorporated within the electoral area. They choose more freedom and personal choice over the more rules and bureaucrats that affect their lives. Blind Bay and Sorrento residents understood, that regulations created by the potential new municipal government, can affect negatively their lifestyle and in the end their wallets as well. Especially for the last two years, bureaucrats proved, how easy they can create more rules to overtake personal freedom and choice.
– DB
