At the opening of the Lifestyle Expo, municipal political rumours were zinging around fast and furiously. It’s decision time for current members and those considering runs at council and school board seats. I know of one potential candidate for a school board two elections away having a good look at how candidates are making their approaches to voters this time.
Surprisingly, I heard whispers that two members of council might not run this time. It saddened me, because I thought they were effective, experienced and I like their style and work ethic. Maybe my informant was wrong or maybe they’ll change their minds.
That same weekend two other St. Albertans asked if I thought they should run. It is the very same question voters should be asking about the candidates seeking our support at the ballot box. It’s never an easy question to answer, without long chats about policy and qualifications but here is what I know to be important.
Don’t run until you’ve read the Municipal Governance Act. Then you’ll have some idea of the power a municipal council has to make changes. You’ll be better able to formulate policies that are accomplishable and speak to them clearly. It’s the same advice I’ve been giving for the last three elections and I’m told it is excellent advice. A copy of the MGA is available at the library.
Check your ethics and your ability to keep your mouth shut. Successful candidates will come home from every meeting with confidential information. If you can’t keep your yap shut from everyone, even your spouse, don’t run. Some information is for your consideration only. There are seven members on council and other administrative sources to help you make informed decisions. Your silence on these matters is golden. Separate out the public matters, understand when a matter becomes public and be ready to discuss it then. Be sure you know when it’s your turn to answer — decision-making is what you’re undertaking. Recognize you don’t and can’t know everything. Be sure that when you speak you are clear, concise and accurate.
Don’t think you’re running the city. Council makes policy decisions and administration delivers them. Council accomplishes its wishes through the city manager. Pick brains if you want but don’t ask for opinion from those who shouldn’t provide it. Don’t forget whose council and school board it is — ours, the citizens of St. Albert, even those who didn’t vote.
Attend every event and meeting you can and listen. You might not like what you hear but better you hear it than be burned by something out of the blue. While you’re at it make sure you try to hear from every group. You may not know all the answers, but it’s good to know the questions. Every one of us has at least five questions we don’t want to answer today. Get the answers to those ugly five questions and be prepared to answer them, if it’s your responsibility. Please don’t dance around. Give it to us straight. If you can’t tell me then say so and tell me why. If you don’t know, tell me.
Remember you can’t quit because you’re tired. I can think of no more thankless tasks than sitting as a member of a municipal council or school board. Think long and hard before you sign up for the duty.
Of course, maybe it’s just me.
Andy Michaelson is a St. Albert writer and poet.
