My comments on the Mayors race between Oakes and Paull
Last night’s mayoral debate gave Quesnel residents an opportunity to hear the candidates speak about their experience, priorities and vision for our community.
Coralee Oakes demonstrated that she is an experienced and accomplished public speaker. She represented Cariboo North as MLA for 11 years and spoke during that time about many of the serious issues affecting our community. For me, however, the important question remains: what specific changes resulted for Quesnel residents from that advocacy?
Ron Paull’s presentation reflected a different kind of experience. His involvement with Quesnel did not begin when he became Mayor, nor has it been limited to City Hall. Over many years, he has been actively involved in the community, working with local organizations, participating in community events, supporting local initiatives and advocating for Quesnel and the people who live here.
That long-standing involvement was reflected in his answers last night. He spoke from the perspective of someone who has spent years dealing directly with local issues and the people affected by them. In my view, he demonstrated that his commitment to Quesnel is not simply something expressed during an election campaign; it is reflected in his record of community involvement.
A debate should not be judged simply by who is the strongest speaker. It should encourage voters to look beyond words and examine each candidate’s record: What did they do when they had the opportunity to act? What did they accomplish? And how did their actions affect Quesnel?
Remember “Actions speak louder than words!”
Councillors
The Councillor candidates were each asked the same three questions and again some were great speakers but talk is not what we, the people are looking for. We want councillors that prove by their actions, they work for the people they represent, the taxpayers of Quesnel.
Take a look at the Councilor’s page for some of the information provided by AI