Low turnout at a northeast Calgary forum can be linked to a single issue, in the eyes of one long-time Marlborough resident.
Zahra Karmali, 29, who was born and raised in Marlborough, said non-functioning community associations and community centres have eroded the fabric of once-proud communities.
Karmali was one of the 40 people at the Civic Camp forum last night at the Marlborough Park Community Centre — a number far below the hundreds seen at other Civic Camp forums.
“There’s a real loss in the sense of community in these neighbourhoods,” said Karmali, adding she’s had to commute relatively long distances to attend community events.
She says many issues galvanize locals, such as public transit, park and ride fees and the airport tunnel — so more engagement in forums is needed.
“It’s a good way to find out what the candidates are going to do to help the people in Ward 10,” she said.
The next Civic Camp forum is tonight in Ward 4 at the Foothills Alliance Church starting at 7 p.m.
