Columnists
Throwing the hat
It might seem a long way off, but before we know it October will be here. With it comes a proper Pumpkinfest celebration for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic. (More on that later.) October also marks the municipal election which will see a new and fresh set of faces around the horeshoe at Shire Hall.
Since starting to work at The Times in 2010, and then taking the captain’s chair in 2017, I have gained a strong passion for local politics. It was likely always there, but watching meetings each week, looking through agendas and files and going over budget documents has fueled that very interest. And of course, working alongside Rick Conroy has also played a large role. We still talk weekly about current and past files that council is working on.
As our readers know, The Times is the goto source for anything to do with the municipal world. We cover each meeting extensively, and our budget coverage is unmatched. I have been lucky enough to peer into the workings of council and Shire Hall, all while taking notes and learning about the process.
Later this week I will have the pleasure of submitting my nomination papers to run for a seat on council in Ward 3, Wellington. I feel that I am at a point in my life where I have the energy, enthusiasm and time to give to the role. I also think it is time for me to give back to the community which has given so much to me, and has always been supportive of this newspaper. Although I no longer live in Wellington, my office is located here and my children attend school at CML Snider. This village is still very much a part of my day-to-day life.
In order to provide some transparency on how operations will work at The Times during the election period, I thought it would be best to tell you how my role with the newspaper will change. Each election cycle this newspaper conducts interviews with each candidate to create a profile. It also gives endorsements on who it thinks would make the best candidate. In year’s past, I have written the profiles and provided input for the endorsements. I will not be taking part in either this year.
Advertising is also a large part of the newspaper during an election year. Candidates use these pages to share their messages—providing you with reasons why you should give them your vote. In order to avoid a conflict, I will also not take part in the sale of these advertisements.
If elected, I will be working with the Integrity Commissioner to be sure I avoid any conflict of interest as Publisher of The Times.
Truth be told, this small but mighty newspaper has me wearing a lot of hats. Things may change, but I will still be the friendly face of The Times.
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