We are still waiting for a decision from Nova Scotia Utilities and Review Board on the number and boundaries of districts that the County of Kings will have in this fall's election. Meanwhile, local citizens, including me are thinking about whether or not they will be a candidate. To date, only one councillor has formally declared he will be a candidate for a district. Peter Muttart is the first declared candidate for Mayor.
I've
been your district councillor for almost 4-years. In 2012, I ran
because I believed it was crucial to have new ideas and more
decision-making skills in council chambers. I hadn't previously
imagined a stint for me “in politics”. I have been told several
times that I will never be a politician. With all that could imply, I
think that's a compliment.
But, a conscious decision to not re-offer is a key way to encourage others
to step forward. I am willing to discuss the responsibilities of the
councillor job with anyone who:
- can offer a sound set of skills.
- would consider becoming a hard-working councillor.
- recognizes the need for bold actions in Kings County to protect the economy of our agricultural base.
- Understands the role of small, sustainable businesses in growing jobs and keeping young families here.
My perspective in 2012, after watching county
council for several years was that more hard-working people, willing
to put their shoulder to the wheel, were needed. That is still my position. We don't need “seat-holders” ready to “hang
in” for yet another term, we need hard-workers, with the time and commitment to serve their communities.
I entered council chambers in 2012 after a hard
won battle against a family that had represented District 3 for more
than 20-years and took a seat among councillors who had
returned to add 4-more years to their 22-years plus as councillors.
In
2016, it is even more evident that new ideas and more diversity on
our council is needed. I ask myself, “Why would I run for one of
only 8 or 9 council seats?”
I
truly value the experiences I've had working with community groups
and individuals to help create a better Kings County with some
improvement of service for every part of the county. There have been
many frustrations in chambers trying to ensure fair decisions, more
efficient services, and an equitable distribution of resources. There
is much more to do. The need for a different approach than
“horse-trading” among the “good ole girls and boys” is key to arriving at better decisions and a more effective local government.
“Hey
there, younger generation, is some-one ready to run?”
There
is a lot of cynicism about the political process. My time behind
closed doors, and even in open chambers leads me to believe the
public's cynicism is well-earned. It is up to those choosing to run
for office to commit to better ways.
Peter Muttart, as the first
declared candidate for Mayor of Kings County, has been a sitting
councillor since only last fall. I believe he has the leadership and
mediation skills required to ensure council and staff provide a
higher standard of service. If a great set of councillors
join him in chambers I believe much can be done, and relatively
quickly, to improve “county politics”.
If
I run for a second term it will be for one more term only. If
returned, that would be a total of eight years. Long enough, in my
opinion, to bring the best you have to offer.
Whether in council
chambers or not for the next 4-years, I am hoping for a wind to blow
away the old dysfunctional ways of doing business this council has
long been famous for. An elected Mayor, a collaborative, forward
thinking and fair-minded set of councillors can make Kings County all
it can and should be.
In a chat with Peter Muttart last week I learned that people are approaching him to ask about the kind of council that is possible. He is happy to discuss this with potential candidates and can be reached at 902.670.6429.
Those contemplating a run for council can find a Municipal Elections Handbook and a Candidate's Guide to Municipal Elections on line.
Please
do not hesitate to give me a call at 902.670.2949 if you have any questions or wish to
get together to talk about a run for municipal council.
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