Strathcona County Works Best When Residents Get Involved

During the last municipal election, I spent months listening to residents across the ward. At doorsteps, in coffee shops, and at community events, one theme kept coming up: people care deeply about this community.

What surprised me was not the level of concern. It was how many people said, “I did not know I could actually influence what council does.”

You can.

And at the municipal level, your voice carries more weight than anywhere else in government.

Over the course of the campaign, I gained a deeper appreciation for how municipal decisions are shaped. Not just at the council table, but in committee discussions, budget deliberations, and in the early stages of agenda setting. Much of the most important work happens before a vote is ever cast.

That makes public engagement even more important.

Local Government Is Where Life Happens

Municipal decisions shape your daily life: the roads you drive, the recreation facilities your family uses, the development next door, property taxes, community safety, and support for local organizations.

These are not abstract policy debates. They are practical decisions that affect how we live. And they are made right here in Strathcona County.

As our county continues to grow and evolve, those decisions become even more consequential.

Showing Up Changes Things

Council meetings are open to the public. Watching even one meeting gives you insight into how priorities are set and how decisions unfold.

When residents show up, it matters. It changes the tone of the room. It reminds council that policies are not just line items; they affect real people.

Engagement does not have to start with a speech. It starts with paying attention.

And once you have shown up, the next step is to speak up, because that is where influence begins.

Speaking Up Carries Influence

Public hearings exist for a reason. If a rezoning, development, or bylaw affects you, you have the right to speak.

It can feel uncomfortable, and I understand that.

But respectful, clear, lived experience carries weight. You do not need to be a policy expert. You just need to be prepared and thoughtful.

In my experience, the majority of councillors listen when residents engage constructively and consistently.

I have seen residents raise concerns about traffic safety, and their advocacy led to changes that made neighbourhoods safer for everyone. That is the power of showing up and speaking up.

Communication Works Both Ways

Municipal representatives are accessible. If something matters to you, send the email. Ask the question. Reference the agenda item and request clarity.

Strong communities are built on dialogue, not assumptions.

During the campaign, I heard repeatedly that residents want transparency and accountability. Both require participation from council and from the community.

The Budget Is a Statement of Priorities

The municipal budget is not just numbers. It reflects values.

Infrastructure, recreation, emergency services, community investment, and long term planning. These choices define the direction of our county for years to come.

If you want to influence priorities, follow the budget discussions closely. That is where trade offs are debated and long term commitments are made.

Leadership Does Not Only Sit at the Council Table

Citizen boards and advisory committees provide meaningful input before issues even reach council. Serving on one is one of the most effective ways to contribute your expertise and perspective.

Leadership at the local level is not limited to elected officials. It belongs to engaged residents who are willing to invest time and attention in their community.

Participation Strengthens the Community

Running in the election made one thing clear to me. Strathcona County is full of capable, thoughtful, community minded people.

What determines our future is not whether people care. It is whether they participate.

Attend a meeting. Speak at a hearing. Send the email. Apply for the committee. Stay engaged.

Local government is not distant. It is not someone else’s responsibility.

It is ours.

If you have ever wondered whether your voice makes a difference, start by showing up at one meeting this month.

Because the future of Strathcona County will be shaped by those who remain involved, not just when signs are on lawns, but in the steady work between elections.