WHAT ARE THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF COUNCIL?

Council is responsible for setting the municipality's overall direction. This includes establishing policies and passing by-laws that guide municipal operations and decision-making in a fair, consistent, and transparent manner.

Council members are also responsible for:

• attending Regular, Planning, and Special Meetings
• participating in annual budget and financial plan discussions
• considering subdivision, rezoning, variation, and conditional use applications
• helping share the future growth and priorities of the municipality

While Council establishes policy direction, the day-to-day operations of the municipality are carried out by Administration under the direction of the Chief Administrative Officer.

The CAO is the primary link between Council and Administration. The senior leadership team includes:

• Assistant Chief Administrative Officer
• Chief Financial Officer
• Manager of Public Works
• Manager of Utilities
• Manager of Community Services
• Protective Services Coordinator
• Human Resources Generalist
• Community Development Planner

WHAT IS THE TIME COMMITMENT FOR A MAYOR OR COUNCILLOR?

Members of council are elected to a four-year term ending in 2030. The new term officially begins at noon on October 29, 2026.

Serving on Council requires a significant time commitment that can vary throughout the year depending on projects, budget discussions, development applications, and community matters.

Council members are expected to attend:

• One Regular Council Meeting each month
• One Regular Planning Meeting each month
• Council briefings, as necessary

Council members are also expected to review agendas and reports in advance of meetings. Preparation time can range from several hours per meeting, depending on the complexity of the agenda.


COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS AND OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES

In addition to regular meetings, Council members are typically appointed to several committees and boards where the RM has representation. These meetings may occur monthly, quarterly, or on an as-needed basis, and are often scheduled in the evenings.

Council members are also regularly involved in:

• community events and celebrations
• public hearings
• meetings with residents
• conferences and training sessions
• and discussions regarding municipal services and concerns

Residents may contact Council members by phone, email, or in person. Serving on Council often means being approachable and available to the public, both during and outside formal meetings.


HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD I EXPECT TO SPEND EACH MONTH?

The amount of time varies from person to person and depends on committee appointments and community involvement. Historically, Council-related duties, meetings, preparation time, and resident communications have averaged approximately 40 to 50 hours per month.

Attendance at conferences and training sessions can add additional time commitments throughout the year. Conferences are intended to help Council members stay informed about municipal legislation, governance, and best practices used across Manitoba municipalities.