Getting Involved in Local Government: Finding Your Voice and Making a Difference

So you’re thinking of running for office and you’re at a complete loss as to where to start or even if anyone would listen to your voice. Stepping into local government is an exciting way to help shape your community, whether it’s a village or town board, city council, county board, school board, etc. National politics seem to grab most of the headlines, but it’s local government where real, tangible change occurs including things like improving roads, keeping communities safe, and shaping school policies. If you’re a conservative like me living in a left-leaning village, city, or county, you probably wonder just how to blend your values with the existing political landscape and be heard. As someone who has done just that for the past four plus years, I’m here to tell you the good news. It’s entirely possible to engage constructively, find common ground, and make a real impact.

First and foremost, participating in local government allows you to be a voice for your community. Decisions made at the local level directly impact your property taxes, local business regulations, neighborhood public safety, and your children’s education. These issues transcend all party lines. Additionally, local boards and councils thrive on diverse perspectives, and you can introduce fresh ideas and reinforce responsible fiscal policies while emphasizing community-wide values.

To be effective, it’s important to understand the basics of how meetings are conducted and how decision are made. Here are a few things you’ll want to become familiar with:

• Robert’s Rules of Order are standardized rules that many boards and commissions use to govern their meetings and helps with order, fairness, and efficiency. Understanding how to make a motion, request an amendment, and how to conducted effective debate will help you navigate discussions like a pro. 

• Each town, village, city, county, and school board operates a little differently. Research how the one you are thinking of running for functions, including how budgets are created and how committees are structured. 

• Most boards and commissions operate under open meeting laws and guidelines about public records and transparency. Understanding these rules is important to help you stay legally compliant and effective. While it may sound a bit intimidating, it’s easier to navigate than you might think. Above all, never use your official email for personal and/or political reasons. Only use your official email for business related to whatever position you hold. If you do happen to use your personal email or communication apps for anything specific to the business of the position you hold, you will need to maintain those records as they will be subject to open records laws.

One of the biggest challenges you’ll probably face is finding the balance between advocating for your conservative beliefs and working productively with those who may not share them. Here’s a few strategies to consider:

• While it may seem like everything is a partisan issue, many issues really aren’t, like responsible budgeting, infrastructure improvements, and quality education. Find ways to creatively collaborate with others to find solutions for these types of common interests. Focus on what is within your authority and ignore things your position has no authority over.

• Instead of emphasizing political differences do what you can to find the common ground, avoid political labels, and present well-researched, practical and well-reasoned solutions to the  challenges the community faces. When you offer workable solutions, people generally listen.

• Approach every conversation with curiosity rather than confrontation. Stay positive whenever possible. You’ll gain more respect by being solutions-oriented rather than oppositional. Listen to the themes of what others find important and find ways to highlight how your solutions can help them achieve their goals as well.

Above all, the key to success in local government is communication. Here’s how to keep discussions constructive:

• Avoid “us vs. them” language. Instead of saying, “conservative values,” try “fiscally responsible solutions” or “policies that promote community stability.”

• We all have two ears and one mouth. Use your ears more than you use your mouth. Understanding concerns from all perspectives can help you craft policies that resonate with a wider audience.

• Instead of ideological debates, focus on the impact proposed solutions will have on families, businesses, and quality of life. For example, instead of saying, “We need to cut wasteful spending,” try “Let’s ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and effectively.”

Local government is about making life better for your neighbors, not about winning an argument. By engaging in a positive, solutions-driven way, you can make a difference regardless of the political climate. So take the leap, get involved, and help shape the future of your community—one meeting at a time!

Author Rebecca Witherspoon, Trustee, Village of DeForest