As we approach election day in Quinte on Monday, I think it’s the perfect time to talk about ways to get involved in your local government.
Having spoken with many candidates over the years, and having been one myself (once), I can honestly say that municipal government is where it’s at!
The programs and services they provide and the infrastructure they maintain and expand has an impact on our lives and activities every single day.
As we celebrate Local Government Week, I think we should all take a few minutes to think about how we can do our part to make things better.
After I ran (unsuccessfully) in 2018, I was fortunate enough to be appointed to the Accessibility Committee in Belleville, where I thought my commonsense approach and experience as a parent of a child with autism would add something to the conversation.
It was a very rewarding experience, which I would highly recommend, as committees of council are a great way for members of the public to have meaningful input on public policy.
During the year, many councilors hold public consultation sessions, but you don’t have to wait until then since most are very open to input on almost any issue. It is, in fact, their job to listen.
Most importantly, get out and vote on Monday. Local governments work best when they have an active and supportive electorate. Make your voice heard, on election day and the days that follow!
I’m Paul Martin and that’s what I see looking Beyond the Headlines.
