Interim Clerk
Township of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal
"I think the old adage of 'don't judge a book by it's cover' fits with local government; we may think that people know what this career is like, but until you're in it, or open the book, you have no idea. I'm happy I tumbled into this world; it's crazy, but it's pretty great."
About Me:
I am a proud Auntie of soon-to-be four munchkins who I learn from and love more than anything. I love to travel and I love the sun, I'm definitely a beach snob. When I was in my early-mid twenties I decided I wanted to travel, spend time at the beach and get paid while doing so. This led to my short but memorable stint working for Carnival Cruise Lines, I spent two six-month contracts in the Caribbean as an entertainment host and assistant cruise director. Through this experience I have made lifelong friends and travel buddies who are willing to explore new places with me. When I have the time, I enjoy cooking, and as a typical female millennial, I may have a slight obsession with true crime - love me a good podcast or docuseries!
Why did you get involved with/pursue a career in local government?
I kind of tumbled into a career in local government if I'm being honest. I would have NEVER thought I would be here and love it so much. I am a Communications Major, I have a background in event planning, I worked hospitality, retail and for a non-profit ahead of local government. An opportunity came up in my local municipality for a part-time recreation coordinator, so I applied. I quickly learned that my soft skills came in handy when working for the municipality. I then went from part-time to full-time by helping other departments, and eventually left for a permanent position in economic development and communications. I stayed there for a few years, learning, growing, beginning my involvement with AMCTO, and seeing what other opportunities are possible in this career. From EcDev I moved into a deputy clerk role which brought to my current role as interim clerk, and I can't wait to see what other opportunities or roles lie ahead.
What is one thing members of the public would be surprised to learn about your role?
I think a lot of people assume that the "clerk" is the note-taker, which we are and can be, but there is so much more to our role. We are the keepers of records, of legislation, of secrets (hello MFIPPA!), and we tend to have a lot of general knowledge about the municipality we're involved in so much. I try to explain it to my friends and family like we're the referee, we have the rule book and we stop the play if it goes out of bounds.
What do you enjoy most about working in local government?
My passion has always been people, I love customer service, it's not easy, but I love knowing that I can help people in my community by working in it. I think of my career in local government as a way of being connected to the people and community around me. Although it can be EXTREMELY challenging at times and things are constantly changing, I enjoy the continuous learning, growing and network that we have. I'm not a person who does well with everything staying the same, I need that change, and local government offers me that. I know I can continue with professional development, I have opportunity to move into various roles and each municipality is different and offers something new. I think at the end of the day, when I look back at my career in the municipal sector, I'll be proud and happy I was able to serve my friends and neighbours.