They’re among the most thankless jobs available in town — and the most necessary. Most of us complain about them at least once a week and yet without them nothing would probably get done around here.
I am writing, of course, about the offices of our Mayor and Council.
On Saturday, November 19 it will be that time again — time to elect the men and women we think are best suited to make decisions on our behalf.
Who among us will step up and make a pitch for our votes?
Just as importantly, what do they offer us in terms of their intelligence, trustworthiness and willingness to make difficult decisions.
Most importantly, what kind of vision do they have for Revelstoke’s future?
I say most importantly because we appear to have drifted in recent years.
Oh, I know there will be candidates who will tell us they want to hold the line on taxes, make rational decisions and ensure public safety.
That’s fine. That’s what we expect of the people we elect. But by themselves those are not good reasons to elect someone to be Mayor or a City Councillor. No. We need to hear exactly what kind of vision our would-be leaders have. We need to be able to judge their real leadership qualities.
Anyone who has spent any time watching politics knows that you cannot lead from the rear. Yes, you can and should be willing to heed advice — but you cannot be a leader if you’re perpetually waiting to be told what to say or do.
Do you fit the bill?
Starting next Tuesday at 9 am, nomination papers will be received at City Hall until Friday October 14 at 4 pm for candidates for school board, City Council and the office of Mayor.
The criteria are simple. You must be a Canadian citizen over the age of 18 and a resident of British Columbia for at least six months. You must also not be disqualified by the Local Government Act or any other enactment from voting in an election in British Columbia or from being nominated for, being elected to, or holding office, or be otherwise disqualified by law.
Do you have what it takes?
Do you have a sense of vision for our community? Are you willing to work long hours for meager pay? Are you capable of making tough decisions?
If you can answer “Yes” to those questions when you should consider running for public office. Our community needs good men and women.
Who knows? You might even like it.
