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.
