Election season is a time for us to come together as a community and make decisions that shape our future. But in the 2020 election, only 37% of voters in District 16 Bedford-Wentworth turned out to cast their ballots. That’s 8,646 votes out of 23,250 eligible voters—a dismal turnout that we can absolutely improve.
The low turnout, while still average for voter turnout in Halifax generally, might have had something to do with the fact that we weren’t voting on our City Councillor. Tim Outhit was acclaimed in 2020, meaning he ran unopposed and was automatically re-elected. Without a contested race, some of us might have felt our vote didn’t matter as much. Our district has changed dramatically and grown immensely since Tim was first elected. Your vote is more crucial than ever.
Why e-Voting in Halifax Matters
1. No More Excuses
With e-voting, there’s really no excuse not to vote. It only takes a few minutes and can be done at any time of day, from anywhere with an internet connection. Whether you’re an early riser or a night owl, e-voting fits into your schedule with no lost time from work or pleasure!
2. A Growing, Changing District
District 16 isn’t the same as it was when Tim Outhit first took office. In 2012 our population of eligible voters was just 16, 927! Today we’re at 27,000 eligible voters. District 16 voter population has grown by 69% in 12 years. We’ve seen new developments, new faces, and new challenges. And very little infrastructure investment. Your vote is your voice in deciding how we tackle these changes and ensure our district continues to thrive.
3. Making Voting Easier for Everyone
Got a computer, smartphone, or tablet? Great! That’s all you need to cast your vote electronically. Even if you don’t have a device, our local libraries (assuming no strikes, of course!) and advance polling locations have you covered. E-voting is designed to be accessible for everyone, so let’s take advantage of it.
Your Vote, Your Voice
It’s easy to feel like one vote won’t make a difference. Maybe you think the outcome is already decided, or that your opinion doesn’t align with the majority, so why bother? Here’s the thing: If everyone who feels that way doesn’t vote, we don’t get a true representation of what our community wants. Not voting, while certainly your right and your choice, leaves the decision in the hands of others.
When you choose not to vote, you’re essentially handing over your power to someone else. If you feel like your voice is often the dissenting one, that’s even more reason to make sure it’s heard. Dissenting voices are critical for ensuring all perspectives are considered. Even if decisions don’t always go your way, your participation helps shape the conversation and influences outcomes in ways you might not even realize.
How to e-Vote in Halifax
- Watch Your Mailbox – Your voter card will arrive in September with all the details you need, including a unique PIN. If you don’t receive this, call the Halifax Voters Information Line 902.490.8683 and they’ll help you get on the list and get you the info you need to vote online, or in-person.
- Log On and Vote – Use your PIN to access the e-voting platform, make your selections, and submit your vote in just minutes.
- Encourage Others – Talk to your neighbors, friends, and family about the importance of voting. Together, we can increase turnout and make sure every voice is heard.
When can you e-vote in Halifax / Bedford-Wentworth?
You can e-vote in Halifax from October 8 – 16, 2024. If you miss those dates you can still vote in-person at your polling station on October 19, 2024.
Be More Engaged
This year, don’t let apathy creep in. We can be more—more engaged, more involved, and more committed to shaping the future of District 16 and Halifax Regional Municipality. E-voting gives us the power to make voting easy and accessible, so there’s no reason not to participate.
Let’s set a new standard for voter turnout in our district. Vote electronically and be a part of the change you want to see in our community.
