Down with the cult of mayoralty

Duchesneau. Doré. Bourque. Prescott. The unofficial election campaign has focused largely on personalities and instant parties, to the almost total exclusion of real issues that actually concern people. But a growing grassroots movement wants to take democracy back from the polls. >> "Citizens will be invited to vote in November. Do we only want to talk about Doré's moustache or Duchesneau's cream pie in the face?" said Jacques Bordeleau, coordinator of the Villeray Community Council. Villeray is the latest neighbourhood to organize its own citizens forum, to get panelists and residents talking about local priorities. >> The NDG Community Council started the ball rolling in mid-April, and the idea has continued to spread. Topics of discussion at most forums include housing, the environment, municipal democracy, privatization, public security and community economic development. Anyone can participate, except politicians; candidates will be invited to listen and take notes, but will not be allowed to speak. According to Mile End meeting coordinator Clément Schreiber, forum organizers don't want the meetings clouded by "politicalerie" (double-speak). >> Upcoming citizens forums: Mile End and Milton Park on June 8 (281-8378); Côte-des-Neiges and Snowdon on June 10 (739-7731); Villeray on September 20 (279-0117). St-Henri is also planning a forum for late August (937-9813). Call for time, place and other details. --Wayne Hiltz