Communities must learn to work together

There may be silver linings for Pictou County voters from the vigorous debate generated by the MOU process just a few months ago, as we approach Municipal Election Day Oct. 15.

There seems to be a renewed interest in municipal politics and in participation in municipal government. More than 80 individuals are running for election throughout the county and in most cases (Westville council being the exception) candidates are in election races. Some may be motivated to ensure we never see another MOU. Others may be of the opposite view. But let’s hope the majority are openminded, with goals to mend fences and find a new path for the overall good.

The MOU process also made us think about the things that are important as we govern ourselves in our democratic system, particularly the need to understand how municipal governance works, how decisions are made and the importance of communicating clearly and in a forthright manner with citizens. We are wiser now.

The MOU also showed us how difficult it has been, and will be, to find ways to build trust among our six municipalities and find common purpose, which we must do.

Ironically when over 200 local people from across the county took part in the amazing Pictou County 2020 process to discuss the future of Pictou County, there was clear agreement on important issues. A common purpose emerged. The love for our place in the world was front and centre. We showed the desire to pull together.

But it all falls apart when it gets to the municipal, political level.

Municipal governance is important. It impacts our lives directly. And it begins with each of us as voters. It is the responsibility of each citizen to choose the best possible individuals as our representatives… not only people who share our views, but people who can make reasoned decisions for the common good.

So what are the qualities we should look for in our representatives? My personal list includes common sense, good judgment, experience in life, and a willingness to make thoughtful decisions. And most important, candidates motivated purely by self-interest and the desire for prestige are dangerous. I am sure we each have our own list of things we look for in our representatives but I hope you will give mine a chance.

There will be some new faces on municipal councils for the next four years, including new mayors in Trenton, Pictou and New Glasgow and possible changes in leadership in the other municipalities. These will be our leaders and they now know, by having gone through the MOU process, that we can be stronger and more successful, if we find ways to work together as an enlightened team of individual communities.

It begins with you.