Local Government Week offers a chance to inform students about the vital role municipal governments play in shaping positive, long-term change in Ontario’s communities.
Municipal governments deliver essential public services that people rely on daily and are the level of government most connected to residents. They have significant influence over issues that matter to residents, such as housing, homelessness, climate change, equity, and economic opportunities.
Brighton Mayor and Northumberland County Warden Brian Ostrander tells us it’s sometimes unclear what and which elected representatives and staff are involved in decision making.
Ostrander tells us Local Government Week is a golden opportunity for you to become more hands-on when it comes to community involvement.
Bottom line says Ostrander, Municipal government is closest to the people and easy to access. In Brighton you can connect with council at least three times a month during regular council meetings.
Ostrander says he also makes a point of getting young people involved in what’s going on in their community because civics is part of school curriculum.
Below are some of the ways you can become more involved in your community.
– Attend public council and committee meetings
– Sign up for your municipality’s newsletters
– Apply to serve on a municipal board or advisory committee
– Engage with your elected officials
– Get involved in community organizations
More information on what Brighton’s nine municipal departments do can be found at: Departments – Municipality of Brighton
(Written by: John Brenner)
