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Lindsay Koch
Lindsay Koch is a councillor in Kenora.
In our ongoing effort to spotlight the experiences of women in municipal politics, we reached out to those elected in the 2022 municipal elections in Northern Ontario. We asked these newly elected councillors and trustees to share their insights and reflections on the transition from candidate to council. Here are their candid and firsthand accounts of the challenges, surprises, and lessons learned along the way.
Lindsay Koch is a councillor in Kenora.
What initially inspired or motivated you to run for council, and how did you envision your role before being elected?
I’ve been involved in my community in a number of ways for so many years that it was only a matter of time. The timing wasn’t necessarily right for me for this election, but the timing for the community was - we needed some new faces and new generations making decisions for us, so why not go for it! Is anything ever truly the right time, anyway? I envisioned lots of meetings and hand-shaking. I envisioned working as a team with others who were elected and hearing many different points of view which would ultimately help to inform my votes and our collective decisions.
How did your expectations or perceptions change once you took office?
The Municipal Act really precludes us from functionally doing business. I’m all for transparency and making efforts to keep the public informed about processes and decisions, how they can engage and participate, etc., but I’m disappointed by how hard it is to get anything done because of legislative restrictions and the policies that have been generated at a local level in response to provincial requirements. Much of what I perceived this would look like holds true, but the barriers that exist and the challenge of making effective change and keeping up with the times lead to frustration for me and others around our council table.
Were there any surprises or unexpected aspects about the role?
I thought I would hear from people more. There’s an assumption that people complain to councillors any chance they get, but I don’t get a lot from people, even when I ask!
What were the biggest challenges you faced when transitioning from a candidate to an elected official?
The relationship with Administration was a challenge — knowing council’s role versus administration’s; knowing when to push back or push for more, and sorting through how to support and manage our one employee (the CAO) in a way that is helpful in meeting the objectives of the corporation and our strategic plan, helpful for council, and helpful for every other staff person who ultimately relies on us to be making good decisions to support them in their work. Also jumping right into the budget - what a beast.
Looking back at your first year in office, what were the most rewarding aspects of serving in your municipal role?
Taking the time to share on social media — which can be a tough place — and all the positive engagements and connections made there. I never tire of hearing from people that they know more, understand more, pay attention more, and are more engaged in not just the City or Council but in the many wonderful things happening in our community because so much of it is shared in one place in a consumable way.
What were the significant milestones or accomplishments you achieved during your tenure?
Working hard on addressing violence and harassment in the workplace through continued Provincial advocacy and making some headway! Learning and connecting almost every day with women across the province in similar seasons of life is huge.
On the other hand, what challenges did you face during your first year, and how did you navigate or address them?
I continue to struggle with bringing forward the priorities I campaigned on because of existing policy and procedure requirements. I also very much wish council could gather in a more informal team-building capacity — we’re still in what feels like an early forming stage when I think we could have moved along the forming - storming - norming - performing spectrum in a more timely way if afforded that opportunity. There’s such a fear of ‘advancing the business of council’ in an unsanctioned meeting and the threat of FOI requests, integrity commissioners, closed meeting investigators, etc., that we’re all left a bit disjointed.
What do you wish people knew about working as a politician, based on your experience?
There’s always more to a decision than comes out in public / is reported on, and a lot of it is available for you to read in the minutes or watch in the recorded meeting. Working as a municipal politician is different than party politics because decisions are made by consensus — I can’t make a decision for our community on my own in this capacity. I’m my own person with my own priorities; I work hard to make decisions with this council with the information I have at the time that, based on my experience and the input others have offered, is the best for our community because I signed up to help make positive change and support growth and development and opportunities for residents to thrive. I am not here to raise your taxes for my own gain.
Where can people find you?
These profiles are part of our ongoing series featuring women councillors and trustees elected through the ElectNOW initiative. Surveys were sent to all woman councillors and trustees who participated in the 2022 ElectNOW series. While some answers have been edited for clarity and spelling, the responses provided are the candidates' own and do not necessarily reflect the views of PoliticsNOW. If you are a woman councillor, mayor, or trustee residing in Northern Ontario and would like to be featured in this series, please fill out our survey.
Kelsie Van Belleghem
Kelsie Van Belleghem is a councillor in Kenora.
In our ongoing effort to spotlight the experiences of women in municipal politics, we reached out to those elected in the 2022 municipal elections in Northern Ontario. We asked these newly elected councillors and trustees to share their insights and reflections on the transition from candidate to council. Here are their candid and firsthand accounts of the challenges, surprises, and lessons learned along the way.
Kelsie Van Belleghem is a councillor in Kenora.
What initially inspired or motivated you to run for council, and how did you envision your role before being elected?
My original motivation for running was based on two concepts: privilege and diversity. Based on my understanding of how City Council roles were created (aka for retired white men), and as a person who has the privilege(almost) of a retired white man in so much as financial resources and family/community support, I knew I was someone who could do the job while mitigating the risks to my family/financial needs, and because I firmly believe that it is of the utmost importance to have diverse leadership. I have a background in finance, and everyone knows that you "shouldn't put all your eggs in one basket," and I believe that to be true of leadership. Boards of corporations that have and meet DEI minimum standards for leadership are more profitable because they do a better job of mitigating risks. This is because, at the end of the day, we all only know what we know — and if the group of people at a decision-making table know more things collectively because there is a myriad of lived experiences at that table, then it’s going to do a better job of charting a sustainable, or even thriving course for its organization. My vision, once elected, was to make well-informed decisions based on best practices and evidence-supported outcomes and to offer my perspective and voice to the table.
How did your expectations or perceptions change once you took office?
My expectations are still the same as those I envisioned for the role, but I have been disappointed in the barriers I still see as a (younger) woman in this role. I have watched myself and my female council colleagues be talked over, or silenced, and even shouted or shushed outright. I have watched the power dynamics play out amongst the gender roles in a way that I find disheartening, and I have noticed as a younger member on council how there is a lack of appreciation of my "experience" held by the community and even colleagues, at times. As noted in the last question, I am a person of privilege. I am white, able-bodied, cis, heterosexual, and so I don't often allow myself too much grace of discrimination in places because, frankly, my experiences are minimal. However, what has made me worry since being elected is that I have struggled so much, even with so many things "going for me" (I mean that facetiously), and since one of my major goals for this term is to make council more accessible to more diversity, I feel really worried about asking anyone else to step into this role knowing the challenges they will face. It's made me incredibly sad because I want everyone to be involved and get to participate in shaping their community from the top down, so to speak.
Were there any surprises or unexpected aspects of the role?
The procedural formalities of the role caught me off guard more than I anticipated. I am by no means a governance expert, but I did/continue to do my best to learn and show up properly. This is a barrier that I didn't anticipate.
What were the biggest challenges you faced when transitioning from a candidate to an elected official?
Getting to create interpersonal relationships with council colleagues that do not contravene the Municipal Act. It is very difficult to create positive working relationships with people when there are so many restrictions around meeting together.
What do you wish people knew about running for office, based on your own experience?
Your voice matters, your experience matters, and you are needed in leadership. Please do not wait for someone to ask you to step up. Know that the requirements to be elected to City Council are minimum age restrictions and being a resident of that community—THAT IS IT!
Looking back at your first year in office, what were the most rewarding aspects of serving in your municipal role?
I have connected with so many incredible people who I probably wouldn't have if I had not run. These connections have been hyper-local and countrywide, and I am so grateful for everyone who shows up to create community and support community, however, wherever they can. It brings me so much hope and strength in my role.
What were the significant milestones or accomplishments you achieved during your tenure?
I have had a number of motions passed last year, including TRC reporting and advocacy to create community spaces 24/7 all year. But the most significant milestone a year is the whole year. The amount of knowledge I was able to consume and digest in the last year has helped sharpen my focus and increased my determination to show up better this next year and the rest of the term.
On the other hand, what challenges did you face during your first year, and how did you navigate or address them?
There have been a lot of interpersonal conflicts that I am still working through. We are all new to each other as a group, and at times, it's been painful to work together.
Were there specific instances or experiences that significantly impacted your approach to governance or leadership?
I think a general understanding of the society we currently live in is based on the policies enacted by the few and that it is important to create a society in which everyone has the opportunity to thrive in their chosen society however they can or want to. I try and keep that lens on everything I do, although I have many blind spots so I also rely on lived experience and experts for the knowledge I don't have.
What valuable lessons have you learned or insights gained that you'd like to share with others considering a similar path in politics?
It's okay to cry; you probably will. It's okay to want to quit, but please don't. I believe this job is hardest on the people who deserve to be, and are needed to be, in it the most, so please stay in and make it easier for someone else to do it.
What do you wish people knew about working as a politician, based on your experience?
It's cool to care about politics because politicians decide how we live in the community. Be engaged and make sure they care about the right things.
Where can people find you?
These profiles are part of our ongoing series featuring women councillors and trustees elected through the ElectNOW initiative. Surveys were sent to all woman councillors and trustees who participated in the 2022 ElectNOW series. While some answers have been edited for clarity and spelling, the responses provided are the candidates' own and do not necessarily reflect the views of PoliticsNOW. If you are a woman councillor, mayor, or trustee residing in Northern Ontario and would like to be featured in this series, please fill out our survey.
Introducing "From Candidate to Council"
For Immediate Release
PoliticsNOW is excited to announce the launch of our latest initiative: "From Candidate to Council." This series is a captivating exploration into the journeys of the 2022 #ElectNOW candidates who successfully transitioned into roles as council members.
In this ongoing series, we have the privilege of connecting with individuals who secured positions as head of council, councillor, or school board trustee. Through insightful interviews, these newly elected officials share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs from their first year in office.
"At PoliticsNOW, we are committed to fostering civic engagement and empowering individuals to make a difference in their communities," said Amanda Kingsley Malo, founder of PoliticsNOW. "The 'From Candidate to Council' series serves as a platform for these leaders to share their stories and inspire others to get involved in local governance."
Join us as we explore the personal journeys of these civic leaders, from their motivations for running for office to the impact they hope to achieve in their communities. Through their stories, we encourage others to consider civic leadership roles and contribute to positive change.
The "From Candidate to Council" series is now live on the PoliticsNOW website, with new features released regularly. To read these inspiring stories and join the conversation on civic leadership, visit http://www.polinow.org/
For more information or media inquiries, please get in touch with Amanda at amanda@polinow.org.
About PoliticsNOW: PoliticsNOW is a grassroots organization based in Northern Ontario, Canada. Dedicated to empowering women to run for municipal council positions, PoliticsNOW provides comprehensive support, mentorship, and resources to bridge the gender gap in local governance and foster inclusive decision-making processes.
France Bouvier
France Bouvier is a councillor in Cochrane.
In our ongoing effort to spotlight the experiences of women in municipal politics, we reached out to those elected in the 2022 municipal elections in Northern Ontario. We asked these newly elected councillors and trustees to share their insights and reflections on the transition from candidate to council. Here are their candid and firsthand accounts of the challenges, surprises, and lessons learned along the way.
France Bouvier is a councillor in Cochrane.
What initially inspired or motivated you to run for council, and how did you envision your role before being elected?
I’ve always followed politics at all levels, and I always told myself that one day I would eventually run, and here I am!
What were the biggest challenges you faced when transitioning from a candidate to an elected official?
Time blocking and management: [I now have] to set time aside for extra boards and committees and reading/researching material.
What do you wish people knew about running for office, based on your own experience?
If you have a drive to learn new things, anyone can do it!
Looking back at your first year in office, what were the most rewarding aspects of serving in your municipal role?
Being involved in networking community groups and being the voice of the citizens in my community.
What valuable lessons have you learned or insights gained that you'd like to share with others considering a similar path in politics?
Know your policies, don’t be afraid to ask questions and listen to your gut.
Where can people find you?
Email
May 6-8 in Sudbury
These profiles are part of our ongoing series featuring women councillors and trustees elected through the ElectNOW initiative. Surveys were sent to all woman councillors and trustees who participated in the 2022 ElectNOW series. While some answers have been edited for clarity and spelling, the responses provided are the candidates' own and do not necessarily reflect the views of PoliticsNOW. If you are a woman councillor, mayor, or trustee residing in Northern Ontario and would like to be featured in this series, please fill out our survey.
Justine Mallah
Justine Mallah is a councillor in North Bay.
In our ongoing effort to spotlight the experiences of women in municipal politics, we reached out to those elected in the 2022 municipal elections in Northern Ontario. We asked these newly elected councillors and trustees to share their insights and reflections on the transition from candidate to council. Here are their candid and firsthand accounts of the challenges, surprises, and lessons learned along the way.
Justine Mallah is a councillor in North Bay.
What initially inspired or motivated you to run for council, and how did you envision your role before being elected?
North Bay is a beautiful city with immense potential. I ran for Council because I wanted to make North Bay a safer, healthier, and more enjoyable place to live, and I didn't believe that was the direction being taken. Citizens are the heart of North Bay and deserve a City Council that puts the community first. I envisioned my role as being very much a representative of the public, listening to and advancing the collective values and priorities of the people of North Bay within the jurisdiction of City Council.
How did your expectations or perceptions change once you took office?
Progress really does take time.
Were there any surprises or unexpected aspects about the role?
I didn't expect how challenging the budget process would be. Municipalities have very tight budgets, and they're only getting tighter. The city’s budget covers, for example, roads, road maintenance, parks, transit, garbage, recreation, and water. With the significant increase in inflation, the costs of maintaining services, such as paving roads, significantly skyrocketed compared to the previous year. We also know that people are struggling, and many can't afford property tax increases. This has made for differing opinions and difficult decisions. For example: How can we maintain our services without tax increases or service cuts? How can we improve efficiencies? How much in reserves can we afford to use? What services/projects should be added or taken away? What does the data show us? Do we have enough information to make an informed decision?
What do you wish people knew about running for office, based on your own experience?
Being a City Councillor is a rewarding experience. You will gain a deeper understanding of the inner workings of your municipality, connect with diverse changemakers, and engage in stimulating discussions and important decisions that will impact the future of your community. But it isn't for everyone. Being a Councillor involves a lot of meetings, long reports, and an often overwhelming amount of emails. It's important to do your homework. Attend Council meetings, join a board, and get as involved in your community as possible. If you believe it's for you, I recommend doorknocking during the election period. It's time-consuming but also the most effective form of campaigning.
What are the significant milestones or accomplishments you’ve achieved during your tenure so far?
Working collaboratively with fellow City Council members, City staff, and several agencies, boards, and commissions, I am proud to have:
Advanced free recreation for families with the approval of a new inclusive Rotary playground and a Kiwanis All-Wheel Park.
Prioritized increasing the housing supply through the Housing Action Plan, Growth Community Improvement Plan, and Housing Accelerator Fund.
Achieved an increase in new housing development compared to the past 2 years, totalling 163 new dwelling units as of November 2023.
Supported the building of 60 new affordable housing units through a partnership between DNSSAB’s NDHC and the Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services Corporation.
Improved community safety and well-being by implementing a security and outreach team.
Secured a warming centre location before winter began.
Advanced road safety by increasing the number of community safety zones and moving forward with a road safety strategy.
Increased accessibility at the North Bay Public Library by no longer requiring a permanent address to obtain a library card.
Enhanced the beauty of our park spaces with art panels at Sunset and Champlain Parks and by supporting Clean Green Beautiful North Bay’s sculpture project.
Funded local artist initiatives through the Creative Industries Arts Fund Micro-Grants.
What valuable lessons have you learned or insights gained that you'd like to share with others considering a similar path in politics?
Every Council member comes into office with their own goals. However, resources are limited so not every goal will be achieved. It's important to work together, value each other's perspectives and expertise, and identify common priorities early on. I also learned to avoid reading online news outlets' comment sections
Social Media Handles
Where can people find you?
These profiles are part of our ongoing series featuring women councillors and trustees elected through the ElectNOW initiative. Surveys were sent to all woman councillors and trustees who participated in the 2022 ElectNOW series. While some answers have been edited for clarity and spelling, the responses provided are the candidates' own and do not necessarily reflect the views of PoliticsNOW. If you are a woman councillor, mayor, or trustee residing in Northern Ontario and would like to be featured in this series, please fill out our survey.
Donica LeBlanc
Donica LeBlanc is a School Board Trustee for the Lakehead District School Board in Thunder Bay.
In our ongoing effort to spotlight the experiences of women in municipal politics, we reached out to those elected in the 2022 municipal elections in Northern Ontario. We asked these newly elected councillors and trustees to share their insights and reflections on the transition from candidate to council. Here are their candid and firsthand accounts of the challenges, surprises, and lessons learned along the way.
Donica LeBlanc is a School Board Trustee for the Lakehead District School Board in Thunder Bay.
What initially inspired or motivated you to run for council, and how did you envision your role before being elected?
As a retired educator, education remains a passion as it is the most important way to improve lives. I wanted to become a trustee to see things from another perspective and be a voice for the community.
How did your expectations or perceptions change once you took office?
Not a lot. [It] was a learning curve in relation to understanding the role of the trustee and the politics of running meetings and how each meeting has a specific purpose. My role continuously reminds me I am here for the children.
Were there any surprises or unexpected aspects of the role?
I love being invited to events and the schools. I learn so much and appreciate the hard work of staff to make life better for students. The trustee relationships surprised me. A great group of people!
What were the biggest challenges you faced when transitioning from a candidate to an elected official?
Learning the role. Completing the online training was onerous. Wading through the material, building relationships with the trustees (some have been there a while, others were new), and then running for Vice-Chair!
What do you wish people knew about running for office, based on your own experience?
Running for office — [be] in the public eye, listen to people, [and] make people aware of what a trustee does. There is some paperwork and accounting, but it is not difficult when running for a trustee position.
What were the significant milestones or accomplishments you achieved during your tenure?
Learning the role, building relationships with great people, [and] being part of OPSBA and its fantastic PD.
On the flip side, what were the challenges you faced during your first year, and how did you navigate or address them?
Some challenging issues or situations to resolve. Getting through the training and then trying to implement it.
Were there specific instances or experiences that significantly impacted your approach to governance or leadership?
Marion Thompson's training on Governance and the Good Governance Guide were crucial in learning about the role. Learning to run a proper meeting and being part of committees.
What valuable lessons have you learned or insights gained that you'd like to share with others considering a similar path in politics?
Be fair, have an open mind, and be prepared to work with people who may have very opposing opinions to your own. Learn to navigate that while simultaneously being a collective voice.
What do you wish people knew about working as a politician, based on your experience?
You have to be a people person; you have to be comfortable with conflict, and sometimes work [with] the people to make things happen.
Where can people find you?
These profiles are part of our ongoing series featuring women councillors and trustees elected through the ElectNOW initiative. Surveys were sent to all woman councillors and trustees who participated in the 2022 ElectNOW series. While some answers have been edited for clarity and spelling, the responses provided are the candidates' own and do not necessarily reflect the views of PoliticsNOW. If you are a woman councillor, mayor, or trustee residing in Northern Ontario and would like to be featured in this series, please fill out our survey.