BRYN JONES-VAILLANCOURT CANDIDATE FOR COUNCILLOR DARTMOUTH CENTRE-DISTRICT FIVE

For Immediate Release

Collaboration. Communication. Compassion.

Bryn Jones-Vaillancourt calls on HRM to increase access for voting during October election Dartmouth- In municipal elections in 2008, voter turnout was around 35%, we can do better. City government is the elected body closest to the people, and the body with the most immediate effect on citizens lives. Bryn JonesVaillancourt, candidate for Dartmouth Centre-District 5, believes that HRM Elections can increase the number of options for voters to exercise their democratic right. We are fortunate to live in a democratic society, where we have the benefit of participating in free elections. With that benefit, there is a duty to help facilitate ease of voting for all residents of HRM. I feel, the HRM Elections office can help in this by expanding the options and ease of which people can vote in HRM Bryn is calling on HRM to expand the ability of voters to vote during the two week period of October 6 18 for electronic/telephone voting and paper ballot on October 20 th. Together we can achieve this, by using existing infrastructure: Having dedicated computers in city libraries, HRM community centres and HRM service centres where residents can vote. Liaison with Halifax Regional School Board to have dedicated computers available for eligible students to vote. Collaborate with Nova Scotia Community College, Dalhousie University, Saint Marys University, Nova Scotia College of Arts and Design, and Mount Saint Vincent University to have dedicated computers available for eligible students to vote. Continue the current practice of providing on-site voting polls in seniors complexes, and where possible a dedicated computer/phone for voting purposes Using existing infrastructure, we can have dedicated terminals that feature the following: A. Homepage set to HRM electronic voting homepage B. Book marked pages for all district boundaries C. Book marked pages with official candidates list for districts and mayoral candidates D. Other web navigation blocked/restricted E. HRM Elections signage marking dedicated computer(s) that highlight ease of access

Elections are about providing options and choice to what has been the status-quo. It is a time to identify what is best practice, and what could use improvement. In 2012, HRM can take the opportunity to help increase access and options in voting for residents and in turn help to increase voter participation. By reaching out to our community, and building relationships, together we can bring democracy to the people and make it easier for them to exercise their voice

For more information, you can contact Bryn via: Bryndartcentre.wordpress.com bryndartcentre@bellaliant.net Tel (902)448-9233 --30--