We are heading into uncertain times. Certainly this is true in terms of global politics; but nationally, and at the municipal level here at home, we are equally facing a year of significant change.
With Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s recent announcement that he would be stepping down as both leader of the Liberal Party of Canada and head of state, we can expect a breakneck leadership race followed almost immediately by a spring election call. Unfortunately, the chance the upcoming leadership race and election will do anything more than exacerbate our already divisive and vitriolic political sphere is slim at best. The possibility of change is arguably overdue but daunting all the same.
Closer to home, we will have to wait until November 2 to learn the results of this year’s municipal elections. Between now and then, however, there will be plenty of announcements from mayors and councillors who are either running again or looking for new opportunities.
The outcomes of the municipal elections, while less headline-grabbing and suspenseful than national ones, are no less significant. Those who choose to sit on municipal councils or serve as mayors take on a serious commitment to be important decision-makers for and within their communities.
With more and more responsibilities being transferred to municipalities, the decision to run for election should not be taken lightly. Councillors, for example, must make difficult decisions and stand by them despite public opinion. While it must be rewarding at times, it is also a heavy role to shoulder. This also explains to some extent why it is becoming so difficult to recruit residents to run for council.
In 2021, five area municipalities did not run elections as all seats were either elected or re-elected by acclamation. Many other seats across the region’s municipalities were filled in the same way. But the recruitment period is now open for new candidates, and our municipalities would benefit from having some new, strong voices around the table.
Sarah Rennie