Although the attention for electoral reform is centred on proportional representation for MLAs, the present system of electing a mayor is far from democratic.
There is considerable antipathy for Victoria Mayor Lisa Helps stemming from many causes, ranging from statue removal to bike lanes to mishandling the investigation of the former police chief. Probably as a result of her unpopularity, nine candidates are running against her. It is quite possible that she could win the election with only 20 per cent of the vote.
The solution is simple: Use a ranked ballot (first choice, second choice 鈥�), which is the same system that political parties use to select a leader.
The outcome of such an election would be a 鈥渃onsensus鈥� mayor and would prevent voting in an extremist candidate.
Kenneth Mintz
Victoria
