By Laura Keil, Publisher/Editor

It may seem early to start thinking about the October municipal election, but if you’re thinking of running you’ll need to decide by the end of the summer.

We reached out to elected reps to see whether they plan to run again, and it appears McBride will have fewer incumbents running than in Valemount.

Running for municipal office is a big decision. It takes commitment and selflessness to sign up for a four-year term with minimal pay. And then there are all the emotions involved in putting your name out there and seeing how many votes you receive. 

So why do people do it?

When people are grounded in their love for the community and their desire to give back, it becomes an easier decision. 

Even if you don’t plan to run, elections are an opportunity to voice our concerns and visions for the future and find out if they align with our leaders’.

So whatever the case, be sure to engage in dialogue about where you’d like to see our communities go, both with candidates and voters. Ultimately, we are all in control of the ship’s direction.