Commentary by Richard Froese

Local government elections are just around the corner and citizens have great opportunity to get involved in the democratic process.

Many municipalities and school divisions faces a variety of local issues such as high taxes, uncollectable taxes from major taxpayers, declining population and businesses closing.

Who are the best players on the team to move community forward in the next four years?

Voters cast ballots Oct. 20 for municipal councils and school boards.

While nominations close Sept. 22, the campaign has started as signs of elections are already being posted around the region to promote candidates.

Elections can get heated and contentious, particularly if elected officials have made questionable or objectionable decisions in office.

No other community process seems to engage residents more than electing municipal councils, mayors and school boards.

Local governments have the most direct impact to residents in the area they serve, more than provincial or federal governments.

Electors have no greater power than to vote for their elected municipal councils and school boards.

Every vote count, as long as it is valid and legal.

In most cases, particularly in small rural regions, voters know their candidates personally, unlike in provincial and federal elections.

Everybody has a valuable contribution in their local community at election time.

Newcomers on councils and school boards are always welcome to provide fresh ideas.

That opens the door for new people to serve a four-year term.

Take a look around and consider who would be an effective member of municipal council or school board.

Perhaps it may be in the mirror or a next-door neighbour.

What person has a wide and positive view of the community and positive ideas to help lead the future?

What people have the experience in leadership in the community and governance?

Who has made positive impacts and contributions in the community that would be valuable on municipal council or school board?

When the lists of eligible candidates are released and posted by the returning officers, take the time to consider each one.

Elections are a time for citizens to reflect on the past and focus on the future.

What candidates from all the incumbents and challengers would be the best to move the community forward on a team?

Study candidate profiles featured in the local community newspaper.

Attend an all-candidates’ forum and find out more about the candidates.

Most of all, exercise the civic duty to vote on election day or at the advance polls.

Seats on municipal district and county councils can often turn into lifetime positions.

Or some voters may have the view that the incumbent can do the job as long as that person wants to.

Electors in some communities welcome change.

Take the Town of High Prairie in the general election in 2013 where six newcomers filled all councillor seats.

The mayor was re-elected after serving one year in a byelection.

Even in a byelection in February 2016, two newcomers filled two councillor seats as two former councillors were defeated.

Change is good and healthy for any community and government – with the right people at the right time.

Voters and residents have more to do than just get out to the polling stations and cast a ballot.

Your obligation to local government continues beyond voting and paying taxes.

Remain engaged and help keep your local government on track to make your community a better place into the future – for current and future residents and businesses.