Voting is underway in Nova Scotia’s Municipal Elections. Although the actual polling day is October 20^th, advance polls opened in the past few days and, in Truro, electronic voting is now taking place. There are no paper ballots this year. Votes are being cast on line and/or by touch-tone phone.

Earlier this week, the Truro and District Chamber of Commerce hosted a debate featuring the two candidates for Mayor of Truro. Incumbent, Bill Mills, and challenger, Keltie Jones, tackled a wide range of topics ranging from public transportation to attracting development to the town.

During their introductory comments, Jones put forward an impressive list of credentials and Mills proudly talked about his years of experience. They then spent an hour offering sensible and honest answers to questions which the public had submitted to the Chamber of Commerce. For the most part, the debate was very friendly and cordial with only a couple of moments containing “digs”.

There was one major problem, however. Not many people saw the debate. The well-organized event was streamed live on the Truro Chamber of Commerce website. Chamber Executive Director, Tim Tucker, says he is disappointed  that less than 150 computers accessed the event. Since two of those computers were occupied by my wife and me, we accounted for more than a percent of the audience. One percent could be enough to make a difference on election day.

This election is offering a good choice for voters. We have two intelligent and enthusiastic candidates. Speaking with some who watched the debate, they say making their decision might be a tough call, because of the quality of the candidates.

I can honestly say that my mind is made up. In fact, I have already voted electronically. My choice for Mayor of Truro is…..one of the two worthy candidates offering to serve.

By the way; you can still see the debate. The Chamber has posted the video on their website and you can (and should) watch it by clicking here.