Term limits a good idea

The suggestion of term limits on politicians is by no means a new concept. It’s been spoken about for years.

Prior to the last election, Green party leader Andrew Weaver introduced Bill M236 which would limit an MLA to 12 years of service. Weaver’s rationale was, “to ensure that those seeking elected office recognize that serving the people of British Columbia should be interpreted as a sense of civic duty, not a career path.”

It’s unfortunate that the bill never proceeded beyond first reading.

Some MLAs, like Canadian and American senators, fill the seat, never giving anyone else a chance. Timing is everything in politics and sometimes good people become tired of waiting and realize they should get on with their lives instead.

Weaver’s suggestion should be extended to mayors, city councillors and especially school board trustees.

In most cases (Summerland being the exception), incumbents have a huge advantage, mainly because of name recognition. Many don’t run because they realize it’s tough to knock off the old guard.

Limiting politicians to 12 years would bring in some fresh, new ideas.

The best volunteer boards are the ones where members sign up for two years with half the members replaced midway through the term. This results in a combination of new faces and experience.

Some people, especially those in the large centres where the job pays well, make a career out of being a city councillor.

Most people wouldn’t disagree with term limits.

A recent poll taken by Forum Research shows 61 per cent of Torontonians want term limits on the mayor, 56 per cent for city councillors.

The counter argument is that it’s ultimately up to the people to decide. If there’s someone they’re happy with, there’s no reason to get rid of them. It hints at age discrimination with term limits.

The people of Mississauga, Ont. elected Hazel McCallion 10 times as mayor (12 if you count the two times she won by acclamation.) She was well into her 90s when she finally retired in 2004 after 36 years on the job.

In small places such as Peachland or Keremeos, it might be tough to attract candidates — with or without term limits.

Now that Weaver and the NDP are in a position of power, hopefully it will be reintroduced. It’s worth debating.