Questions to Ask About Local Representation
“Elections belong to the people. It’s their decision. If they decide to turn their back on the fire and burn their behinds, then they will just have to sit on their blisters.”
Abraham Lincoln
Engaged and accountable local representation is vital for the success and well-being of any community. As a resident, you have the power to hold your local representatives accountable and ensure your vote is informed. To do so effectively, consider asking the following questions:
- What has your councillor done to address the most pressing issues in your ward? Understanding your councillor’s track record is essential. Identify the key challenges in your community—be it infrastructure, public safety, or social services—and evaluate whether your councillor has taken meaningful steps to address them.
- Has your councillor been accessible and responsive to community concerns? Accessibility and responsiveness are hallmarks of good governance. Reflect on whether your councillor has been available to discuss issues and if they have responded promptly and effectively to concerns raised by residents.
- What initiatives or programs has your councillor implemented to improve service delivery? Assess the tangible actions your councillor has taken to enhance local services. This might include improvements to waste management, public transportation, or recreational facilities.
- How effectively has your councillor communicated municipal plans and decisions to residents? Clear communication fosters transparency and trust. Consider whether your councillor has kept the community informed about important decisions, policies, and plans through meetings, newsletters, or social media updates.
- What steps has your ward committee member taken to engage with the community and advocate for its needs? Engagement is key to understanding and addressing community priorities. Evaluate how well your ward committee member has connected with residents, hosted forums, or sought input to inform their advocacy.
- Has your ward committee member organized or supported community development projects? Community development projects often reflect a commitment to long-term progress. Look for examples where your ward committee member has played an active role in organizing or supporting initiatives that benefit residents.
- Are there clear and measurable improvements in your ward that can be attributed to your councillor or ward committee member? Concrete results matter. Identify any noticeable improvements in your ward, such as upgraded infrastructure, enhanced safety measures, or new community programs, and determine whether they can be credited to your local representatives.
