How I Make Decisions as an Elected Official

So, you know how being an elected official can be a bit of a wild ride? Every decision I make really matters to the community. I’ve figured out that getting to the right choice isn’t just about gathering info; it's all about staying flexible and open-minded.

One of the big things I’ve learned is that even when I think I’ve got it all figured out, something unexpected can pop up and change my whole perspective. There have been moments where I've felt super confident about a decision, only to later find out new info that flips everything upside down. That’s why being willing to change my mind is crucial. It shows strong leadership when you can reassess things and adapt based on new facts.

It's essential for me to keep an eye on how things are changing, whether it’s what the community needs, public opinion, or just fresh data. Let’s be honest, though; it’s not always easy to do this. It’s frustrating when I see leaders sticking to their guns, even when there’s evidence saying they should rethink things. It takes a lot of humility to admit, “You know what? I was wrong,” and to be open to a different direction.

I’ve had the pleasure of working with some great companies that taught me that changing my viewpoint isn’t a weakness; it's actually a strength. Reevaluating a decision shows growth and a commitment to what’s best for everyone. What’s really problematic is when people stubbornly cling to a choice despite clear evidence that suggests otherwise.

And hey, I get that not everyone will agree with my decisions or the choices I make, and that’s totally fine. We all come from different perspectives. It’s important to find a way to disagree respectfully without resorting to name-calling or hostility, especially online. I really encourage people to reach out. Send an email, give me a call, or text me. I’m always open to reassessing my decisions, but it’s tough to have those chats when negativity is all around.

Making decisions is an ongoing journey for me. There have been times in the last four years when I’ve brought motions back to the table simply because our community has spoken up. Often, I’ve stood alone in my convictions, and I’m actually quite okay with that. Each and every time the community has spoken louder and rallied support. Take, for example, the transportation master plan. I proposed a motion for a public hearing, but it got defeated. However, the public outcry was so strong that just two weeks later, another councillor brought back the same motion I had introduced, and this time it received majority support. I’m not scared to make those decisions and bring important issues forward. It involves staying curious, listening to different viewpoints, and being ready to adjust when necessary. By keeping an open mind, I can serve my community better and ensure the choices reflect what people truly need.

At the end of the day, being an elected official is all about being a lifelong learner. It’s about welcoming change instead of resisting it. Every time I come across new information, I remind myself how vital it is to stay humble and adjust my course when necessary. This way of thinking builds trust in the community and helps create a government that's responsive and engaged.