The needs of a small business

The Reality of Being a Councillor -
Standing Up for the Community

Being a councillor is more than just holding an office; it’s about serving the community and advocating for its needs, even when it gets tough. It often means navigating hard conversations and standing up for what’s right, even when it feels like you’re going against the tide. This role requires a deep commitment to listening to residents, understanding their concerns and making decisions that reflect the community's best interests.

Many people enter this role believing it to be a part-time commitment, but let me tell you, do not fool yourself. This is far from a part-time job. If you’re truly dedicated to answering emails, meeting with residents and staying engaged with community issues, this is a full-time responsibility. At a minimum, it demands 40 hours a week, but often more. The reality is that being a councillor requires immense dedication and a willingness to put in the hours to ensure that your community feels heard and represented.

There are times when making the right choice isn't the easiest option. These moments require courage, as standing up for the community often means addressing uncomfortable issues or challenging the status quo. It can be daunting to advocate for change, especially when you know that not everyone will agree or support your position. However, a good councillor prioritizes the long-term well-being of the community over temporary discomfort.

I recognize that these challenges are part of what makes the role so rewarding. It’s fulfilling to see positive changes result from advocacy and dialogue with community members.

I want to share some sentiments from a respected local business owner. Sabrina Moore-Frazer of Kollektiv’s words capture what it means to me to be a dedicated councillor and the importance of standing up for the community. This is how committed leadersact, by listening and engaging.

Running a small business in this city isn’t for the faint of heart. Over the past couple of years, many of us have faced confusing changes, limited communication, and top-down decisions that directly affect how we operate day to day. It’s exhausting trying to keep up, let alone feel heard.

I’ve fought more than my share of uphill battles for fairness. And through it all, one councillor has consistently shown up, followed through, and refused to let our concerns get buried: Shila Sharps.

When downtown parking changes blindsided local businesses, she didn’t just send a polite reply. She showed up, asked questions, and pushed for transparency and clarity. When the city’s utility structure left small businesses like mine tangled in unfair classifications, she took the time to understand, connect directly, and keep pressure on administration. Any progress that’s been made is largely thanks to her persistence.

While I’ve often been completely stonewalled by the city, Shila was the one who responded, bridged the gap, and made sure conversations didn’t die in silence. That kind of advocacy and tenacity is rare, and it’s exactly what we need more of.

For me, this isn’t about politics or party lines. It’s about leadership rooted in transparency, accountability, and the courage to speak up when it matters.

That’s what true representation looks like. And that’s exactly what Shila Sharps has delivered.

Sabrina Moore is the owner of Kollektiv in downtown Medicine Hat.