It is apparent that this upcoming election has brought much negativity towards the incumbent and occasionally candidates.

While it is impossible for everyone to agree on everything, the right to a different opinion does not condone negative commentary or judgemental attitudes on a person's character.

Debate is healthy; if everyone voted in unison just to 'get along', we risk poorly conceived outcomes.

RECENT LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Also, allegations are just allegations; we are observers without access to all the facts of a situation; often misguided by media or public personalities, who may play on the conflict to incite an emotional reaction in us.

I see nasty personal comments on Facebook in reaction to a position on an issue, yet the rhetoric from the public cries that the current elect are the dysfunctional ones.

The nature of politics is to debate ideas, addressing the many perspectives and benefits to different community groups.

A decision that you disagree with is not a personal attack, nor is it necessarily the wrong decision.

We must remember how multifaceted the impacts of even the most straightforward sounding decision can be.

I have recently had some long and wonderful conversations with councillors and candidates; everyone has been positive and helpful.

I have been treated with respect and kindness in each conversation, and I appreciated these interactions immensely.

So if the incumbent are respectful to us constituents, why the hostility?

Be kind to your elected; they do so much for our community, for little recompense and little thanks they often receive.