It was encouraging to see 482 voters cast ballots for our fluoridation referendum.
This is approximately 30% of our eligible voters and considering we had no civic election for our Municipality, this was a good turnout. You always hope, however, for a larger turnout during the democratic process.
There were 335 voters who voted “No” to Fluoride in our water, while 147 said “Yes.” These numbers are a true reflection of the public’s wishes. Williams Lake also held a similar referendum and their numbers were similar to Lake Cowichan. To clarify why we had to have a referendum — as fluoridation was brought in by referendum, it could only be removed by referendum which is why Council was unable to make this decision. Thank you for your participation.
Congratulations to Pat Weaver and Duncan Brown for being elected Area I Director and School Board Trustee, respectively. Pat will be one of the many new faces around the CVRD table, although she is not new to the political field, while Duncan will be one of four new School Board Trustees.
Corix Utilities and our Public Works crew are currently working on installing the final 400 water meters to complete phase two of our water metering program. Once complete, we will begin the process of establishing a usage threshold before metering is implemented.
The sign dedicated to Canadian Golf Hall of Fame inductee, Dawn Coe-Jones, is now complete and erected near the entrance to Old Lake Cowichan Road, as you enter town. Zak Stolz’s carving and kiosk looks terrific. We are very proud of Dawn and this monument represents her outstanding accomplishments.
We have now established a policy and nomination package relating to our Heritage/Sports Wall of Fame. Nomination packages can be picked up at the Town Office with a submission deadline of Jan. 31, 2012. This time line will allow the committee time to review nominations received, decide on inductees and make the necessary preparations for the Inductee Ceremony during Heritage Day Weekend. Please take the time to involve yourself in this process to help identify the most deserving candidates.
The Town now has a Facebook page where public information will be posted. Peruse it and view our scenic pictures of Lake Cowichan. We would welcome your scenic Lake Cowichan photos to add to this site which showcases this beautiful place we call home.
Our Seasonal decorating committee has been busy decorating throughout the town in preparations for the Christmas Season. The town also lit up in conjunction with the December Madness on Dec 2.
Thank you to staff and employees and of course our families as we continue towards our goal of making this a better community.