It is an election year, which means it’s time to start thinking about whether you are satisfied with your electors, or whether you think you can do a better job.
In preparation for both municipal and school board elections in October, I have begun to take a more active interest in local and provincial politics, as well, thanks to my colleague at the Westlock News, in school board meetings.
In speaking with former Town of Barrhead councillor and now County of Barrhead administrative assistant Linda West, current Town of Barrhead Coun. Leslie Penny and Jennifer Tuininga, board chair for Pembina Hills Public Schols, the one thing I heard over and over again was to be mindful of the time commitment.
I tend to agree with them.
If you’re interested in running for office, I would suggest attending a meeting or reading the minutes if you are unable to attend.
Be warned ahead of time however.
West told me that the preparation for meetings beforehand might very well take up more time than the actual meetings themselves and that it would be prudent to plan for it.
In addition, for women particularly, the problem could be exacerbated by familial responsibilities, but in most cases, especially with council meetings, remember that councillors share the responsibilities and if any cannot attend, another will fill in for them.
It is easy to say roads need fixing, services need to be expanded, et cetera, but the truth is, it all takes money and sometimes the funds don’t go as far as you want it.
When you are on the other side of the table, it can be frustrating to see the problem and not be able to take care of it as quickly as you would like.
Remember who elected you if your campaign is successful.
West and Penny both admitted there will be times that you won’t be as popular with your neighbours and friends as you would like, but that popularity is not necessarily the reason one should get into politics.
You do it because you want to effect change and believe that you can do so.
Good luck contenders, may the best person win.
