I t was nice to think about a career change last year, but these economic times do not allow me to do that. Especially since the contemplated career change was in real estate, a profession taking the brunt of the economic meltdown. Sometimes you have to take a break and step away to realize how good you really had it.
As much as I’d like to retire from a day job, I have found that a dwindling retirement portfolio and two college expenses (and weddings) looming in the future do not lend me that luxury! Thankfully town council is usually a night affair, and I can still do that, yet working and council and kids leaves me pretty exhausted and there is not much time for myself.
I believe that the job of a council member is one of the most meaningful one can have, however balance is key. Council keeps one pretty busy, and if your time is already filled with a full time job and children, then good time management skills become very important! Should it be this way? For the last four years I have been able to manage because I haven’t really worked full time (except for one of those years).
I think we should always make sure that the job of council does not become a job that keeps out the voice of a working mom or dad with children, or single parents. It is supposed to be a part time job. Many times it isn’t when you add up the hours you spent doing council work. I worry that the council becomes a group of nine members that are either retired or rich or basically in a financial position to perform the job, and it shouldn’t be that way for truly democratic representation. I don’t think we are there yet, but I could see it happening in the future if we are not careful. Certainly Carolina North presents this council with extra work and challenges, but there will always be something that is on the front burner that we have to work hard on. We are getting more efficient overall in how we do things, but we can do better.
I look forward to learning who will jump into the political fray this summer by filing for election for Town Council. I hope they know what they are getting into. I have been able to handle it but I have much energy and a supportive spouse. For those that are thinking of running, now is the time to think and plan before the actual campaign begins that keeps one pretty busy. Best of luck to all.
