By Rob Weys
Published: Feb. 4, 2012.
My interest in politics goes back to my youth. From an early age I was constantly reading history books of early civilizations.
They fascinated me, the way populations of people developed towns and cities. The systems of governance they used, and how it worked for the times they lived in.
The progression from early cultures to established religions and then modern ideologies. The successes and failures constantly changed and adjusted the way societies interacted with each other.
I have studied numerous political systems, multiply religions, philosophical and ideological theory’s.
A common theme I have found in them all is that people constantly strive for a better system of governance and leadership.
Regardless of how good the system is people become unsatisfied with its effectiveness. This is human nature to reach for something that is perceived better.
My view is that new is not always better, but changes and perspectives can renew life into leadership and government.
No one person or group has all the answers or solutions this is obvious.
To continue to lead and guide a community forward, leaders must listen to the people. They don’t necessarily have to agree or make decisions to make everybody happy. But they must listen.
The Squamish Civic Club was created on this need within the DOS. Numerous members of our community have been asking to be heard by city hall for a long time.
When a number of select committees were dissolved, the community was closed out even more. The Squamish Civic Club is a combined voice of different members of the community.
Anyone can join and contribute to provide positive feedback and advice to the DOS and Council. With a casual setting and open forum, people will have the chance to be heard.
‘Listen to what people have to say, then decide, but listen.’
This is advice my grandfather gave me when I was 8 years old. I still believe this.
The DOS and Council need to listen to the many experienced and intelligent members of the community.
This pool of knowledge and wisdom is ignored far too often.
Having a resource like the Squamish Civic Club only adds to the positive growth and future of the community. It will bring topics to the forefront and provide the feed back to the district.
It is key to establish this link of communication between the Council, DOS, and the Community. This transparency and accountability produces better government and leadership.
There are many challenges and philosophical issues in our fast paced world today. Computers, smart phones, and social media, transfer ideas and thoughts faster than people can respond or retract sometimes.
As a community we cannot solve all the worlds’ issues, but we can focus closer to home. By doing this we contribute to a better way of doing things and maybe set an example for other communities.
The Squamish Civic Club provides in person discussions between community members. Neighbours get to know neighbours, and maybe in the process find common ground.
Upon this a good foundation of social, economic, and environmental pillars are established. And a community is formed to last generations
If anyone would like to join the Squamish Civic Club, we will be having our next meeting Feb 23, at 7 p.m., at the Living Lounge and Restaurant.
After that they will be the 4th Monday of each month. Locations and times will be announced.
The web site is Squamish Civic Club
The email address is squamishcivicclub@gmail.com
