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Building Confidence as a New Councillor: Insights from Kathryn MacDonald
As the year 2025 comes to a close, Kathryn MacDonald, Ward 1's city councillor in Saskatoon, reflects on her journey during her first year in office. Highlighting the importance of building confidence in municipal politics, MacDonald shares how her experience has been a significant confidence booster. She emphasizes the need for councillors to develop the courage to advocate for their constituents and to stand firm in their positions, even amidst challenges.
A Year of Learning and Growth
MacDonald states that, although she entered her role with few expectations, she quickly began to understand the intricacies of the city's governance. City administration has provided her with vital insights, particularly about advisory committees—a crucial part of local governance that, at first, seemed overwhelming. In her words, "the system has many moving parts," making it essential for new councillors to navigate carefully to avoid pitfalls.
Community Engagement: A Core Focus
Active community engagement has been at the forefront of MacDonald’s goals. She believes that fostering connections and understanding residents’ concerns is paramount. With her background as a business owner, she sees firsthand the importance of being responsive and reliable, aiming to serve as a voice for the residents of Ward 1. MacDonald shared her belief that the local government must address homelessness compassionately, understanding its roots in affordability and a lack of resources.
Challenges in Budget Deliberations
Delving into budget discussions this year, MacDonald was candid about the challenges new councillors face during these deliberations. With a complex budget and limited time to review information, she acknowledged how crucial it is for councillors to be prepared and informed. "It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the numbers without context," she remarked, stressing that understanding the city’s expenses is vital for effective governance.
Looking to the Future
As she looks toward her upcoming term, MacDonald is determined to participate actively in shaping Saskatoon's future. She envisions a city that prioritizes affordable housing and addresses the urgent needs of its residents. By advocating for community initiatives and ensuring essential services are funded, MacDonald hopes to foster an environment where every citizen feels valued and heard.
Conclusion: Empowering Future Leadership
Kathryn MacDonald's reflections from her first year are not just personal milestones; they resonate with many aspiring politicians and community advocates looking to make a difference. Her experience underscores the importance of not only having the courage to speak up but also the ability to genuinely connect with the community. This approach, she believes, is key to driving meaningful change in Saskatoon’s municipal landscape.
This insightful journey into local governance serves as a call to action for residents to engage more deeply in their community. Understanding local challenges, voicing concerns, and holding leaders accountable are all essential parts of nurturing a healthy democratic process.
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