I’ve been wanting to jot down a blog to let you know what I’ve been up to since getting sworn in on December 6th. I also wanted to reply to a great column written by Christine Wood in our local paper last week called, “As the fanfare fades, what’s next?” Great question.
If I could answer this question for myself it would be this: appropriate and accountable action.
As a new Councillor, I’m obviously learning the ropes in many regards. However, that does not hold me back from what I have always done – to work hard on specific, tangible projects for the community, to network and build relations (linking people together who need to meet each other for some reason) and to use my skills to help encourage effective communication where needed.
When I review my introduction campaign video, I remember these three reasons on why I ran:
- To balance and diversify Gibsons council;
- To encourage a fresh, innovative approach in council;
- To find well-matched opportunities for the amazing talent in our community.
Here’s a quick run-down on initial projects and priorities that I’m getting a jump on prior to Christmas!
- Employee / Entrepreneur New Resident Project: Best Coast Initiatives is working on an “Employee/Entrepreneur New Resident Attraction project” that will hopefully benefit businesses on the Coast. As the Council liason for BCI, I’ve enjoyed helping to get this project off the ground. The Seaspan National Shipbuilding contract provides a “proof of concept” opportunity, and we hope to meet with Seaspan soon to advance the project.
- Communications & Community Engagement Improvement: I’ve been working with staff and volunteers in an effort to bring forward some suggestions to Council early in the New Year so we can move towards implementing them.
- My meeting schedule is full, full…. FULL! Yesterday was a great day with George Cuff as I attended A Primer for Elected Officials & Their Advisors: Understanding Good Governance. I learned so much and was grateful for the opportunity as well as the fact such important information was shared to everyone at the same time – we all heard it. And much of what I felt needed to be said on many topics was said. Today is my first Chamber of Commerce meeting as I now sit as a Council Liason on this board as well, and this afternoon it is my pleasure to meet with a group of amazing artists to discuss an opportunity they are looking into… Talent + Opportunity is where it’s at!
As always, welcoming your communication! My new town email is csanjenko@gibsons.ca. My Gibsons Gets Fresh Councillor Facebook page is also up and running. And I invite you to please join us at my inaugural Council Meeting next Tuesday, December 20th at 7 pm.
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Charlene is a Creative Catalyst for Positive Change who enjoys bringing an entrepreneurial edge to social change. Charlene’s business experience in the financial services industry, law, accounting, and as an entrepreneur have given her a unique, well-rounded perspective from which to work with clients she enjoys and projects she is passionate about. Born and raised on the Canada’s West Coast, Charlene enjoys projects grounded in tourism and community economic development especially where collaboration and innovation are present. Her extensive network and strong relationships allow her to manage quality, unforgettable experiences, events and excursions that Distinctly West Coast is quickly becoming known.
