Councillor Blog August 2024
Welcome back fellow residents of White City (and those reading from the surrounding area) for the August 2024 edition of the White City Councillor Blog.
As Mayor of White City, I am excited to encourage all of you to consider taking an active role in shaping the future of our town by running in the 2024 Municipal Election. White City thrives on the dedication and passion of its residents, and serving on Town Council is one of the most impactful ways to contribute. Your involvement can make a significant difference in our town's development and governance.
Why Serve on Council?
Serving on Council is not just about attending meetings and making decisions. It's about representing your neighbours, addressing community concerns, and working towards a better future for everyone. It's an opportunity to bring your ideas, skills, and perspectives to the table and collaborate with others to achieve common goals. You'll gain a deeper understanding of municipal governance, develop leadership skills, and make lasting contributions to our community.
Here are some steps you can take to explore this rewarding opportunity:
1. Read Council Packages on CivicWeb: www.whitecity.civicweb.net
Understanding the issues and projects Council handles is essential for any potential candidate. Start by reading the Council packages available on CivicWeb. Agendas are posted no later than the Friday prior to a meeting. These documents provide detailed information on the topics discussed during Council meetings, including financial reports, project updates, and community feedback. By reviewing these packages, you can gain insight into the ongoing initiatives and the decision-making processes that shape our town.
2. Attend a Committee or Council Meeting
Experiencing a Council meeting firsthand is invaluable. Attending a meeting allows you to observe the dynamics of discussions and the procedural aspects of how decisions are made. You'll see how Council members collaborate, debate, and resolve issues. This experience will give you a clearer understanding of Council's role and the type of commitment required. Meetings are open to the public, and the schedule is available on our town's website.
3. Reach Out to a Current Council Member
If you're considering running for Council, speaking with a current member can provide you with valuable insights. Reach out to a current Council member to learn about their experiences, challenges, and the rewards of serving on the Council. They can offer a realistic perspective on what it takes to be an effective Council member and answer any questions you might have about the role. Our contact information is available here: https://whitecity.ca/p/Council.
4. Review the Government of Saskatchewan's Guide
The Government of Saskatchewan has prepared a comprehensive guide for prospective municipal Council members: https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/municipal-administration/elections/running-for-municipal-Council. These resources cover the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of Council members. Reviewing these materials will give you a solid foundation of knowledge and help you understand the commitment required to serve effectively. They are an excellent starting point for anyone considering a run for municipal office.
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Running for municipal office is a significant decision, but it's also a wonderful opportunity to contribute to the future of White City. Serving on the Council allows you to directly influence policies and projects that impact our community. If you have a passion for our town and a desire to make a positive difference, I strongly encourage you to consider this path.
Nominations are open September 24 to October 9, 2024 – If you’re interested in running for Council, I encourage you to begin your journey now and consider the time and effort required to serve effectively on Council. I hope to see your name on the ballot in November!
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