On behalf of my entire organization, I would like to thank my friends, volunteers,and well-wishers for their support throughout my campaign.
It was an uphill climb from the start, as we had no money, no organization, and no time from the get-go. Still, we were able to develop a terrific policy and garner some momentum during the final push to the finish, and I believe that we did make a difference in this town.
We finished a strong third in the polls. Considering we spent $30,000 and the second- and first-place candidates spent more than a million each, I'd say we should be proud of our efforts.
But it is more than the votes which matter. We brought up the question of secondary suites with the city, and it became an issue. We brought up the viability of the current propsal for the west leg of the LRT, and now citizens are questioning it. We brought up the idea of a subway beneath the downtown core, and now it is generation interest in the media and talking circles.
Most importantly, we brought up the lack of accountability with our elected officials, an issue which will prove to be lasting with our newly-mandated city council.
I had many nay-sayers and self-described "devil's advocates'" offer their opinions on why a person like me could never become mayor. This campaign was not for them; this campaign was for all those who decided that they could make a difference in this city."
Congratulations, Calgary. We have succeeded!
- Sandy Jenkins |