Welcome to VOICE of NANAIMO

Welcome To VOICE of NANAIMO

Grassroots Publishing and our flagship platform, Voice of Nanaimo, are committed to empowering Canadian citizens with impartial, insightful, and easy-to-understand journalism. At the heart of our mission lies the belief that democracy flourishes best with an informed electorate actively engaged in governance, especially at the local municipal level.

Most of us have been taught that our role as citizens does not diminish significantly once municipal elections conclude. In theory, civic government appears responsive to public input, encouraging ongoing community involvement. However, practical experience often paints a different picture. The reality frequently involves a noticeable reduction in citizen engagement and influence once a city council is elected, limiting public participation primarily to formal consultation rather than meaningful input into day-to-day governance.

Furthermore, common perceptions suggest that elected councilors actively guide and oversee the professional staff at city hall, setting clear policy direction. In practice, however, councilors often function in a largely reactive role—reviewing, approving, or occasionally challenging recommendations already prepared by professional staff. Consequently, strategic initiatives and major decisions frequently originate from city hall’s administrative team rather than the elected council.

Voice of Nanaimo is committed to demystifying these processes and highlighting the actual workings of the Corporation of the City of Nanaimo. By providing clarity about municipal governance and transparency regarding decision-making processes, we empower taxpayers to reassert their essential role as influential community stakeholders. Through accurate reporting and engaged dialogue, we foster greater accountability and encourage active participation, securing Nanaimo’s long-term sustainable growth and prosperity.

TOPICS & ISSUES TO BE COVERED

City budget analysis and financial transparency
Infrastructure and community development projects
Housing affordability and zoning policies
Environmental sustainability initiatives
Transportation and public transit planning
Local economic growth and job creation
Crime rates, policing, and public safety
Municipal election processes and candidate platforms
Community engagement and public consultation effectiveness
Impact of city council decisions on local businesses
Recreation, parks, and public spaces management
Transparency in city hall communications and decision-making
Property taxes and fiscal responsibility
Development and planning department efficiency
Civic services and responsiveness to citizen concerns

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Check here for pages and pages of helpful information and contacts. Weather forecast, ferry schedules, council meeting schedules, council and government contacts, crisis coping contacts, yard and garden tips and more.

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