Municipality of French River

Councillor Blog October 2024

Welcome back fellow residents of White City (and those reading from the surrounding area) for the October 2024 edition of the White City Councillor Blog.  The nomination period for mayor and councillor candidates is now open.

As White City continues to grow and evolve, this is your chance to help shape its future. The 2024 Municipal Election is fast approaching, and we are inviting residents to get involved by submitting their nomination papers to run for Mayor or Councillor. Serving on Council is a unique opportunity to represent the voices of our community and help lead the way forward.

Submitting Your Nomination Papers

Nominations will be accepted from September 24, 2024, to October 9, 2024, at the White City Town Office. To submit your nomination, you will need:

•    A completed nomination form, signed by five voters of the municipality.

•    A Public Disclosure Statement.

•    A Criminal Record Check, as required by Bylaw 657-20.

The deadline to submit is October 9, 2024, by 4:00 p.m. If you’re considering running, now is the time to gather your materials and complete your paperwork.

Why Consider Running for Council?

Running for Council is an opportunity to make a real difference in our community. Whether you are passionate about community development, local infrastructure, or engaging residents in decision-making, your voice matters. The Town of White City is at a crucial stage of growth, and we need leaders who are ready to guide us into the future.

As a Councillor, you will have a direct role in shaping policies, services, and initiatives that impact every resident. White City’s Council is comprised of one Mayor and six Councillors, elected at-large. This means you will represent the entire community, not just a specific ward or district. The term for all positions is four years.

Understanding the Time Commitment

Being a Councillor is a part-time position, but it requires significant dedication. Council meets bi-weekly on Monday evenings, with additional committee meetings, special sessions, and community events. You should expect to dedicate time for meeting preparation, reviewing reports, and engaging with residents. Council also participates in regional boards and commissions such as the WCRM158 Wastewater Management Authority, Local Library Board and the White Butte Emergency Measures Organization.

For new and returning Councillors, a Council Orientation will be held on November 18 and 19, 2024, to ensure you are prepared to step into your role. Flexibility with your work schedule is essential, as some meetings may take place during daytime hours.

Candidate Information Session

A candidate information session has been tentatively scheduled for Thursday October 17, 2024 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.  This optional in person will be available to candidates to provide candidates with information on what to expect if they become an elected member.  The session will include a high-level overview of time commitment, council and committee process, ethics and other important information.

Special Election Issue of White City Insight

In preparation for the election, the November 2024 edition of White City Insight will be dedicated to providing voters with detailed profiles of all candidates. This special election issue will feature all candidates 150-word profile, along with a photograph and contact information. If elected, your role will be to serve and represent our town with transparency and integrity.

If you’re passionate about the future of White City and ready to lead, consider running for Council. Together, we can continue to make White City a vibrant, inclusive, and forward-thinking community.

If you have any questions, have a comment, want more information, or want to suggest a topic for a future blog please email townoffice@whitecity.ca or call 306-781-2355 – we look forward to hearing from you!

- Mayor Brian Fergusson

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