In his column today on NewsKamloops (online news site) - Mel Rothenburger, also the Thompson-Nicola Electoral Area 'P' (Rivers and the Peaks) Director, floats the idea:
Should local elected officials have a statutory limit on how many consecutive terms they serve?
In terms of history - elected officials used to have a two year term many years ago, along with municipal councils' having half of their membership up for re-election every year, in some fashion, until 1990 when local government legislation was amended to require full Council/Board membership elections every 3 years with the term length being amended a couple of years ago to a 4 year term
While term limits in other jurisdictions, including Canada, is virtually unheard of -- this is routine in most, if not, all American political offices (local, state and federal governments). One possible benefit is allowing "fresh blood" into our political system (local, provincial and federal) and allowing young people, like myself and others who are young and who can or do actually serve in local public office - be it Mayor, Councillor, Electoral Area Director or School Trustee.
You can read Mr. Rothenburger's column here
~SF
1 comment:
Re American congressman and senators,they appear to grow old in their seats. What are the limitations with these positions? Young and ambitious persons can now run for office,within the rules laid out by government any time they like. If they have the maturity and common sense needed they can,and often do ,defeat the incumbents who have lost the confidence of the voting public! This way the voting public decides if they want to retain a senior and experienced politician,who has performed well over the new inexperienced person. Having said all of this,in some circumstances , I know,a limited time,would be advantageous .
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