If you’re a resident of Wellington North and have nothing on your calendar the next couple of Monday evenings, why not consider attending a meeting of Wellington North Council?  Regular council meetings are slated for Monday, Jan. 18 and Monday, Jan. 25 at 7 p.m. at the council chambers in Kenilworth.
A resident of the Township of Southgate? A regular council meeting is scheduled for 9 a.m. next Wednesday, Jan. 20 and a committee of the whole council meeting on Jan. 27, also at 9 a.m., both at the council chambers in Hopeville.
And, if you live in West Grey?  A regular meeting will be held on Jan. 18 at 7 p.m. and a Committee of the Whole Council on Jan. 25 at 9 a.m., both at the municipal council chambers on the outskirts of Durham.
Why attend a meeting of council?
Because now is the time to pay attention. This is an election year with the vote scheduled for late October. It’s a good idea to go and see your elected officials in action, especially in Wellington North where we already know there’s going to be an election. On Monday evening Mayor Mike Broomhead announced he will seek another term in the township’s top spot. Councillor Ross Chaulk is also seeking the mayor’s position – he made his announcement back in November.
Don’t rely on the news reports you have read chronicling council discussions and decisions. Don’t decide how to cast your vote on the basis of knowing the candidates only through what you’ve heard. Attend a meeting and pay attention.
 Why attend a council meeting?
It might even be a good time to consider running for elected office yourself.
Councillor Chaulk’s decision to run for Mayor means there will be at least one council seat up for grabs. On Monday, Councillor Bob Mason announced he will not be seeking re-election. If he sticks to those plans, that means two empty seats to be filled in Wellington North.  Councillor Dan Yake is seeking re-election; Councillor John Matusenic’s intentions are unknown at this time.
An election is democracy in action. Last time around the Wellington North Council seats were all filled by acclamation. That’s not a good thing. Although it could be said that means council is doing a stellar job and changes are not needed, it more likely means the community is apathetic. We need an election to stir things up, get views and opinions out there.
In the Township of Southgate, as of Monday, no papers had been officially filed although former councilor and CAO Don Seim stated his intention to seek a council position way back last fall.
West Grey Council was in session on Monday so The Confederate was unable to connect with CAO Christine Robinson to see if any papers have been filed there.
But, stay tuned to The Confederate for all your 2010 election news. We’ll let you know as soon as we know. And let the campaigning begin…