Summer is winding down. For many people that means a focus on enjoying the last bits of sunshine and lazy days, followed by the rush of back-to-school shopping.
But for the majority of adult residents who are able to vote, it also means the 2025 municipal election is drawing near.
Included in this edition of Lakeland This Week is a round-up of where things are at in municipalities across the region. While it is still somewhat early, and not all candidates have put their names forward to run for municipal office yet, the list is starting to take shape in many areas.
In some divisions or wards, several people have opted to run for a seat on council. In other areas, there are no names put forward – yet.
It’s a big job and a big decision to put yourself on the public stage as a municipal official. Running into your neighbours at the grocery store who may not always be in agreement with the decisions being made is a unique challenge of the job. It can be time-consuming, with long meetings, and tough discussions.
Municipal politicians must love and want to serve their community, along with having a thick skin. They must be someone who can take criticism, while keeping focus on the issues and tasks at hand.
Making decisions for a large group of people is not easy. And sometimes, there simply is no easy answer in municipal politics.
Whether you put yourself forward as a candidate or not, as in any election we all have a responsibility to be engaged, educated and vote.
So, be sure to visit the Elections Alberta website and make sure you are registered to vote ahead of the Oct. 20 municipal election. Take some time to learn about the candidates in your area over the next two months and enjoy being part of local democracy.
