The Journey of Running for Municipal Council -- Before and After the Election

When the Council reconvened in 2024, I attended every meeting in person except one via Zoom, primarily for information, without intending to run for office. With an opportunity arising and a by-election called in April 2025, I decided to give it a shot. I did, and I succeeded.

Now let me begin by saying that being on the other side of the council table is a completely different experience. I was sworn in just prior to the start of a council meeting. After the photos were taken, the gavel sounded and the Mayor called the meeting to order — realization dawned. I felt like the star of a reality show, with every council member and gallery visitor glued to me like I was about to reveal the next plot twist! Leaving out an owl made my Zoom screen look like a scene from a tech glitch comedy! I misplaced my voice somewhere, my mouth turned into the Sahara Desert, and I had an overwhelming urge to sprint home faster than a cheetah on roller skates! Over time, it has gotten better and continues to improve as confidence grows.

Here are some tips I've learned in moving from the other side of the council table: practice patience. I've utilized training opportunities like Local Governance online webinars and sessions from the Union of Municipalities of New Brunswick and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. I've connected with peers from other municipalities and I'm not hesitant in contacting Local Government if necessary for clarification. Attending UMNB's convention in October provided a valuable opportunity to network, engage, learn, ask questions, and explore the services available at the conference's trade show. It's all part of learning to become an effective councillor and investing in your community's benefit.

Furthermore, I depend on our team, specifically our CAO (Chief Administrative Officer) and CFO/Treasurer, as they have provided me with impartial support (offering unbiased or neutral assistance).

I continuously go back and review minutes from past meetings, in our case since Local Reform in January 2023. I've done it not just once, but again and again. Getting to know the issues, past and current. Furthermore, making sure I review and acknowledge all bylaws, understand Robert's Rules, and the NB Municipalities Act, as these are essential tools that establish guidelines for ensuring accountability, transparency, and council procedures. Completing my homework and being ready.

Exercising patience requires resilience, attentive listening, and thoughtful questioning. Preparing before meetings by reviewing agendas, pertinent topics, previous minutes, and clarifying any uncertainties is crucial. As a councillor, collaboration is vital; you cannot manage everything by yourself, and it's important to agree to disagree.

In my upcoming blog, I intend to examine the responsibilities of Mayors and Councillors, emphasizing what is permitted and prohibited according to the NB Municipalities Act and as outlined in the February 2026 "Practical Guide for Candidates" by New Brunswick Elections.

And here I am, signing my Code of Conduct! A topic for later.