BURNABY – Local MLA Janet Routledge is reminding everyone in Burnaby that the deadline to register and vote in the referendum on electoral reform is fast approaching.
“This is a historic opportunity,” said Routledge. “I’ve been talking to voters at bus stops, skytrain stations and at community meetings. People are excited that together we can make our voting system more democratic. I want to encourage voters to have their say and they can only do that by casting their ballot.”
Routledge said that if you don’t already have your ballot, the deadline to register to vote or request a voting package is this Friday, November 23 at midnight.
“Ballots need to be received by Elections BC by November 30,” added Routledge. “Elections BC has received hundreds of thousands of ballots, but there are more to come. It’s important everyone get their vote in as soon as possible.”
“What some people don’t know is that you can also drop it off at Service BC locations, rather than mailing it in.” The closest location for people in Burnaby is at Brentwood Mall.
Routledge said that if voters still aren’t sure how they’re voting, they can take an Elections BC-approved, online quiz at referendumguide.ca. The MLA added that Elections BC has excellent resources on its website for those who want to do more research. “If you still aren’t sure how to vote, I encourage everyone to visit Elections BC online. They have resources that will make it easier to determine which voting system you’d prefer,” added Routledge.
Routledge also reminded voters that should the referendum pass, British Columbians will have the chance to vote again in a confirmation referendum after two full election cycles. This will ensure British Columbians will have the chance to review and confirm their support for electoral reform if voters choose proportional representation in this fall’s referendum.
To request a voting package, eligible voters can visit elections.bc.ca/ovr, call 1-800-661-8683, or visit a Referendum Service Office or Service BC Centre in person.