Having just read the May 28 issue of the Saanich News, "Saanich survey shows dip in satisfaction", it appalls me that the mayor and one councillor have determined the number of respondents in the "white" demographic should be limited. It is apparent they did not see the results they were looking for. Democracy is not based on demographic proportions of the population; it is a representation of all citizens. We do not tell a specific "demographic" that we have received a "quota" of your perceived ethnic group, and you will not be allowed to vote.
Clearly, more work needs to be done to encourage participation in surveys rather than attempting to limit how many people from a demographic will be allowed representation. That is not democracy, but this council has failed to show concern for what the majority of residents' concerns are. The survey clearly reflects overall dissatisfaction.
Clearly, we need to re-evaluate what Saanich needs in representation for its population. These councillors are not working on the residents' behalf.
Thomas Musgreave
Saanich
