Blue Moose customers have an opportunity to once again predict the outcome of the upcoming municipal election.
The coffee house is running its election poll until Nov. 18, giving people a chance to cast a vote for mayor and council with every coffee purchased. However, owner Wes Bergmann points out it’s more about generating discussion than an indicator of election results.
“It’s a fun poll,” he said. “It’s about providing an environment where people can safely talk about the issues.”
Poll results are updated every morning and displayed on a white board inside the Blue Moose.
As of press deadline, mayoral candidates Laurie French and Susan Johnston were tied with 57 votes each.
The council frontrunners were Gerry Dyble, Scott Medlock, Peter Robb, Ron Smith, Donna Kropp, and Tim Hudie and Cindy Koszegi tied for sixth place.
Bergmann is hosting a mayoral forum on Thursday (Nov. 3) from 7-9 p.m., which is being moderated by Hilary Kennedy.
Questions focus on four areas: commerce, social/quality of life, district policy, and personal qualifications. Questions will also be welcomed from the floor by those in attendance.
There is an all-candidates meeting on Nov. 7 at 6:30 p.m. in the new multipurpose room at the Hope & District Recreation Centre as well.
The event is co-sponsored by the Hope & District Chamber of Commerce, Hope & District Recreation and Cultural Services, and The Hope Standard.
The public will have a chance to hear from both mayoral candidates and the 10 contenders vying for six seats on council.
Candidate questions can be submitted in advance to news@hopestandard.com. They will also be accepted at the meeting and answered as time permits.