ARTICLE · 11 JANUARY 2017

"So You Think You Can Dance?" Footwork For Elected Municipal Officials

Cox & Palmer

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Being a municipal councillor is a tough but rewarding calling. New to elected office and not sure where to start? Or, think you've seen it all and looking for some new moves?

CanadaGovernment, Public Sector

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The following article was adapted from a speech that Kevin Latimer, Q.C. was honoured to present as the Ken Simpson Municipal Lecture, hosted by the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities, on November 30^th, 2016 in Halifax.

Being a municipal councillor is a tough but rewarding calling. New to elected office and not sure where to start? Or, think you've seen it all and looking for some new moves? This article offers some practical tips on making the most of your mandate - gleaned from 20+ years observing both masterful performances and missteps on the municipal stage in Nova Scotia.

A brief note on the title. It was inspired by the hit TV show So You Think You Can Dance? I thought the notion of having to work hard, work with partners, be adaptable, and perform under pressure in the public eye might resonate with elected officials.

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