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With municipal elections scheduled for October 26, elected officials and prospective candidates across Northumberland County are being encouraged to consider a new training opportunity offered through the Association of Municipalities of Ontario.
The Stronger Leaders, Stronger Communities online workshop series is structured in two streams, one designed for incumbents preparing for re election and another for residents thinking about entering municipal politics for the first time.
AMO says the program is intended to respond to the increasing demands placed on local leaders, including public scrutiny, complex decision making and the pressures of communicating in an online environment.
The track for sitting councillors begins February 19 and runs through May. Topics include clarifying leadership purpose, managing conflict, strengthening working relationships and maintaining personal wellbeing while in office.
The stream for aspiring candidates launches in March. Those sessions focus on building confidence, communication tools and resilience, along with opportunities to connect with others considering a campaign.
Participants may attend individual workshops or the entire series.
The timing comes as municipalities such as Cobourg, Port Hope, Brighton and Trent Hills prepare for nomination periods expected to open later this spring.
AMO says supporting both current and future leaders is key to maintaining strong local governance in communities across Ontario.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
