Columbia Institute

The Centre for Civic Governance at Columbia Institute released poll results today that underscore concerns about low voter turn-out in the November civic elections. Only 7.2 percent of British Columbians surveyed were able to name November 15 as the date of the municipal election while 28 percent correctly chose “some time in November”.  A whopping 44.5 percent didn’t even venture a guess.

“These results underscore a very real concern about low voter turn-out”, said Executive Director Charley Beresford. “Low turn-out means that only a small proportion of community members are choosing the path for the entire community”.

Only 36.4 percent of respondents were able to name one of their local councillors, while 61.9 percent of respondents named an incorrect local politician, their Member of Parliament, their MLA, or no one at all.

"Communities are stronger when people are involved. Voting for your local council and school board members can have a profound impact on community direction”, said Beresford.

The results are based on a sample of 800 BC residents. The research was designed by Strategic Communications and fielded by Ipsos Reid between October 7 and October 12, 2008. These results are considered accurate to within 3.5 percent 19 times out of 20.

For more information, please contact Charley Beresford.