Dear Editor,
The desire of the Bowen community seeking balance in its governance is abundantly clear this election.
A balance in genders, three new women for a total of four out of seven, compared to one out of seven in last council. A balance of Bowen-size development initiatives and preservation/protection of the natural features that, for many, was the reason we came and settled here with an eye for the long term. A balance of priorities and representation of a broader diversity of voices in the community. A balance of new and established citizens. A balance of young and older. A balance of skills, experience and passions brought to the table to work on the issues and challenges that we have in common.
A hopeful promise of mutual respect, listening and accommodation among those around the table. It will be up to the new council to make this happen. And, please make no mistake, we want and are expecting you to make this work, for your own sake and for ours. May I suggest a large oval or round table in chambers bringing people closer to each other and to the work.
We hope for more openness and transparency, and expect less secrecy, closed meetings or "surprise" decisions made without meaningful public participation. We hope for more public outreach in multi-faceted and meaningful ways using both old and new ways of communicating, and a council chamber that feels welcoming to the public and that encourages citizens to engage and speak up. We want a council culture with equal amounts of both IQ and EQ that will try its best to address and acknowledge differences and concerns in the community.
And, we want a better and more rigorous process for balancing of the "public interest" with "private interest" so that the broader public interests, (like parks, trails and public beaches) are protected as the essential, finite and precious assets they are. Parks and waterfront need to be accessible and free/affordable for those who are not able to buy a waterfront lot or acreage. That is what the "public interest" is. Everyone, no matter income, has access to the beautiful places where they live. It's important.
The community has made its choice. It is now the job and responsibility of those who received our trust to work together as a our community resource on our behalf. No one will get everything they want but none of us should feel excluded or dismissed. Otherwise your job is not done.
We thank you and we watch in hope, in awe of your personal commitment and in appreciation. Well done, Bowen.
Wynn Nielsen
