Writing a column about council duties after only one month into the job is a little awkward. We have just embarked on budget deliberations but are not far enough into it for me to regale you with its finer points. Please dry your tears and be patient for the next councillor’s article.
Though maybe not the highest form of entertainment, the budget process is critical and will impact every resident. With guidance from staff, we are about to decide how to allocate money to meet Nelson’s needs. To do this well, we must pay attention to our community too, not just the loudest special interest group or the most influential people, but the quiet groups and insightful individuals who may see where we need to go to stay healthy. We need to think about everyone.
This year, budget deliberations are right after the election which is perfect timing because we have just finished working very hard to convince you that we listen and will represent your interests. Now we have our jobs and this is our first big test. But it doesn’t stop after budget, the job goes on. How do we retain genuine, broad, public engagement after the popularity contest… er… I mean, election, is over?
So far, I’ve heard from Nelson residents about tree maintenance/replacement, the Telus tower, electric meters, lack of affordable housing, chickens, and dogs. Despite the supposed lack of parking downtown, no resident has ever expressed difficulty in finding adequate parking. Conversely, some have identified parking requirements for new development as an insurmountable financial burden. Perhaps people speak to me about this because I don’t own a car or maybe more residents are starting to see justice in finding affordable homes for people before more free homes for cars. Everyone has their perspective… have I heard yours?
I don’t like excuses like “people are disinterested in the political process” or “voter turnout was abysmal” or “youth are disenfranchised.” I know that when people find their issue, they have an opinion on it and will want it known. The beauty of Nelson is that it is big enough to have a thriving community, but it’s still small enough that anyone could personally acquaint themselves with the mayor and council… and be heard. Hats off to you people for standing up to speak. Let me help.
I want to try a couple things that I heard during my campaign, to keep in touch with residents: 1) Regular, informal, coffee-shop public discussions; 2) make my political calendar public.
The goal for the informal public discussions would be to engage people who don’t make it to regular council meetings or be more interactive and approachable for those who do. I would share topics currently under public debate and let you know what direction I’m thinking about taking. I’ll be asking “am I on the right track?” and “what issues am I missing?” My first gathering will happen in the spring — more details later.
The second idea of a public calendar would allow anyone to see what committees I sit on and what initiatives I’m involved with. My intent is to help people understand what I do as a councillor and to make it easier for you to provide valuable input since you can see who I’m working with and when. By the time you read this, I should have set up a calendar which anyone can view at councilorkiss.inthekoots.com.
I will do my job based on what I know and what I can learn. I’m better off with your help.