It’s been two weeks since the people of Cumberland chose me to represent them at the Council table. I’m honoured and grateful. I’ve been a bit (uncharacteristically?) quiet in that time, and I think everyone deserves an update.
The work has begun. I took the oath of office yesterday evening, and then into our first budget meeting for the next three and a half hours.
My diary is full with orientation sessions, meetings with other officials and staff, and the business of Council, which in October means into the deep end with the budget, which will define what we will do for our residents in this year and beyond, and how much that is going to cost our taxpayers.
Learning is enjoyable, and I am meeting new people, getting into the details of how things are done, and building my understanding of the complex task of running a government.
At the same time, I am acutely aware that I represent almost 5000 people.
During the campaign, I found the most fulfilling and valuable part to be the conversations, the chance to talk with so many people about what matters to them. That is something I do not want to lose as I get into the internal workings of the Village government. I’ll look for ways to maintain those connections, and I’ll keep updating this website and my Facebook page.
Things will doubtless evolve over time as I get used to this role, and for now, my aim is to publish a blog post near the start of each month, and let you all know what I’ve done in the past month, and write a little more about the most rewarding and most challenging things. I think I can manage to maintain that and it will give everyone a flavour of how I am working to represent you all.
September 2024 – My First Election Campaign!
This was a whole new experience for me, but fortunately I found many amazing people who knew what a campaign needs and offered their help. In about five weeks we did so much work to plan and implement all of the things needed to properly communicate and connect with as many residents as possible. On September 21st, we all waited to hear the results, and I am grateful to all those who voted, helped run the election, volunteered and took time to talk with friends and neighbours. I also thank Ken and Thea, the other candidates, who made this a proper election, brought their ideas and passion to the conversation, and helped us all get out and work for each and every vote.
Most Rewarding? Conversations and Connections
I learned so much during the election campaign, and without doubt the most rewarding part was the conversations with Cumberland residents. Taking time to really listen, to let ideas and concerns be heard and to learn how to bring everyone’s voice to the table. Whilst it was no surprise to hear how much people love and care for this community, the range of ways that takes form, and the challenges that come along with caring so much, places a heavy responsibility on those of us who choose to represent you. I”ll try to live up to that trust and find ways to keep engaging and listening.
Most Challenging? Balance and Boundaries
On election day, I went down pretty hard with a cold or flu. Took me a week to get back on feet, and another week to be back up to speed. I’m not used to that, usually I get to power through, but it’s a signal to pace myself. This work is interesting, and difficult. That makes me want to dive in and devote as much as I can to it. At the same time I’ve got to find time for family, professional work and a little for myself, because I plan to be in this for the long run. Still working that one out, which is why it’s taken me two weeks to get to this post, and I’ll keep working, learning and communicating.
Coming Up – Budget
Working out the budget for the Village is a big challenge for staff, council and taxpayers. October has many long meetings and careful deliberation, and a Village Hall meeting with residents in early November. Look for more news at cumberland.ca
