Don't be shy about running for council!

The deadline is fast approaching to submit papers to run for a position on Caledon council and the two local school boards.

It takes many things to put yourself in the public spotlight and offer your skills to make decisions that often effect every one of your friends and neighbours. Being a councillor places many demands on your time and requires some very supportive family members.

In its purest form, there's nothing more satisfying than making a difference in your own back yard. Maybe it's ego, maybe it has something to do with people and resource management. Whatever the reason, those who decide to run for municipal office deserve a very big tip of the hat.

Win or lose, by offering your services to your fellow taxpayers, you're doing a great service. And this is fundamental in our democratic system that anyone, from any walk of life, can run for office and serve. There's really nothing simpler.

Of course, the job description and accompanying selection process is rather unique.

The entire voting constituency becomes your collective "boss" and decides whether you get the job based on your resume, previous public service, achievements and how you handle yourself at public, all-candidates' meetings. There are doors to knock on, people to speak with and issues to tackle. While kissing babies is out, some firm handshakes, smiles and waves are all part of the job.

Once you've secured the position, you're pretty much safe for the next four years. Unlike the real world of employment, there's no probation period and you can't really be fired, unless of course you really screw up big-time. It becomes a regular gig that will likely bring you closer to your community than you ever thought possible.

Of course, politics, even at the municipal level, is not always rosy. There are many headaches, trials and tribulations associated with "being in charge" and sitting around the council table, responsible for millions of taxpayers' dollars. You have to be at your

best and deal with everyone very diplomatically. Fortunately, we're fairly considerate and polite here in Caledon. And, the Town of Caledon boasts a very keen and knowledgeable group of staffers to back you up.

The same qualities and conditions that make running for office so democratically beautiful, are also cause for concern.

Too often than not, only a handful of citizens opt to jump in, with both feet, to serve. There are more entrants in the annual baby contests at the fairs than run for council! And, there may be one or two areas where candidates will run unopposed. The worst situation is when a would-be councillor wins an election by acclamation. It's like being given a free ride, not even knowing whether anyone likes or supports you.

The age-old saying you get the type of political representation you deserve is always true. If you, as a citizen and active member of your community, don't take the time to learn about the issues and candidates, and get out and vote, you really have no right to comment on council matters. People have fought and died for fundamental democratic rights for centuries. And we not only take it for granted, we often waste this very important privilege. Less than half the voting public actually comes out to make that little X on election day. Shame on those who don't!

This isn't rocket science. Local politicians, have, in Caledon's history, come from literally every nook and cranny, from various backgrounds and occupations. Academics don't really matter much what matters is a genuine desire and skill to help make decisions. Every single person has a unique skill to offer, and valuable contributions to make. You'd be surprised how much can be accomplished with a little genuine interest and some elbow grease.

The rest is up to you. If you are inclined to run for office, all the best. If you want to vote for stability or change, go ahead. Its in our hands, literally.

MP, Editor