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Innisfil, ON – In the wake of historically low voter turnout during 2022 municipal elections across the country, the Town of Innisfil is investigating ways to improve voter and candidate participation. As part of this effort, the newly established Electoral Engagement Advisory Committee (EEAC) is encouraging residents to complete a survey to help inform a communications and engagement plan for future municipal elections.

Mayor Lynn Dollin emphasizes the importance of this survey, stating, "We believe that community participation is the cornerstone of a vibrant and thriving municipality. Your voice is your vote and by taking this survey, you’ll help us develop strategies that address the diverse needs of our community for the next municipal election.”

The EEAC’s mandate is to review previous election-related practices of the Town of Innisfil and similar municipalities, consult with Innisfil residents to understand the underlying reasons behind disengagement, and develop recommendations for Council’s consideration to rekindle voter and candidate interest.

In Innisfil’s 2022 municipal election, only 24.26 per cent of eligible voters cast their ballots, reflecting a concerning trend in democratic participation. Statistics from the Association of Municipalities of Ontario indicate the province-wide average voter turnout was 36.30 per cent, marking the lowest figure recorded since AMO began tracking data in 1982. In fact, municipal voter turnout across the country was at an all-time low.

In an effort to reverse this trend, residents are urged to learn more and take the survey by December 15, 2023 at getinvolvedinnisfil.ca/elections. Paper copies are also available at Innisfil Town Hall and the Innisfil ideaLAB & Library branches. As a thank you for people’s time and feedback, survey respondents can enter to win a $100 Active Innisfil credit that can be used for Town recreation programs.