Dear editor:
Two letters to The Lake Report published on Sept. 24 merit a response: “A few rookie politicians are fine — but not a lot” and “Rookie politicians have their work cut out for them.”
First, while the term “rookie politician” is commonly used, it does little justice to the candidates seeking office in Niagara-on-the-Lake this year.
A look at the campaign materials of first-time candidates such as Weston Miller and Stave McGuinness, for example, reveals professional experience, volunteer involvement and strong community credentials. Although they would be new to elected office, these candidates and others bring valuable skills and perspectives that could serve our town well. The label “rookie” risks understating their capacity to contribute.
Second, both letters make broad claims that deserve closer examination. One suggests that major change would be “an unmitigated disaster,” while the other argues that “the only winners in a rookie council is [sic] the bureaucracy.”
Perhaps the authors can point to past examples that support their concerns. However, there are also examples of new leadership bringing fresh perspectives, establishing different priorities and achieving positive results.
Neither outcome is inevitable; much depends on the individuals involved and their willingness to work constructively together.
Third, both letters draw comparisons with the corporate world, where seasoned professionals and effective mentoring are rightly valued. While there are lessons to be learned from that environment, municipal government operates differently.
Town council does not report to a CEO and a board of directors; councillors must respond to a diverse range of residents, community groups and other stakeholders, often with competing interests.
Mentoring new councillors may be valuable, but it should not be confused with expecting them simply to follow established practices. They will undoubtedly face a learning curve, but — as several candidates have pointed out — listening to residents, asking questions and bringing fresh perspectives are equally important parts of effective representation.
At the federal and provincial levels, voters regularly elect new governments, with entirely new cabinets and leaders. These governments must learn to work with the public service while advancing their policy priorities. Experience and institutional knowledge matter, but so do new ideas, clear direction and a willingness to challenge established approaches.
Finally, voting for change should not automatically be interpreted as a desire to “throw the bums out.” Perhaps we would all be better served by leaving that dismissive expression out of this election. Choosing new councillors may simply reflect a desire for new priorities, or a new culture at town hall.
I believe many of this year’s first-time candidates bring the experience, judgement, skills and determination to contribute meaningfully to municipal government. They deserve to be assessed on their individual merits, their ideas and their commitment to the community, rather than on their lack of previous experience in elected office.
Ultimately, the question is not whether a council has enough first-term councillors or veterans. It is whether its members can listen, learn, work together and make thoughtful decisions in the best interests of Niagara-on-the-Lake. That is the standard by which all candidates, new and experienced alike, should be judged.
Robin Cardozo
NOTL
