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Vote for healthy hometowns

Vote for healthy hometowns There has been no shortage of issues that have inspired (and inflamed) Canadians during the federal election period - issues that will likely drive voters to the polls in record numbers. When they get there, my hope is healthy h

There has been no shortage of issues that have inspired (and inflamed) Canadians during the federal election period - issues that will likely drive voters to the polls in record numbers. When they get there, my hope is healthy hometowns are front of mind when putting a checkmark beside their candidate of choice.

Municipal leaders across Canada, from the smallest villages to the largest cities, have engaged local candidates and national parties on the day-to-day issues concerning Canadians. Creating more jobs, making housing affordable, protecting the environment, keeping neighbourhoods safe and addressing infrastructure deficits and decay are several of the themes we’ve asked parties to prioritize.

Ensuring our communities are strong is a goal that transcends partisan politics. Canadians understand that; where parties differ is how to achieve that objective. The Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) has made it easy to follow where parties stand on matters important to our hometowns with their online FCM policy tracker (http://hometownproud.fcm.ca/policy-tracker). I encourage everyone to explore each party’s platform and commitments for strengthening our towns.

It’s a safe bet most voters can do without a tax credit for their kids’ art camp. But try making do without potable water, driveable roads, emergency services, or a landfill - all areas of municipal responsibility.

The federal government has a role in addressing these needs with long-term, predictable funding. After all, strong communities mean a strong country.

Significant, long-term investments in our cities and towns improve our quality of life and ensure a bright future for Canada. Before Oct. 19, take a moment, visit the FCM website, and get informed on how parties will help build vibrant, healthy hometowns. After that, you have just one job: voting. Make sure you do it.

Wayne Potoroka

President, Association of Yukon Communities