Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay and the Town of Creston are pleased to announce an information session for prospective RDCK Electoral Area Director candidates and Town of Creston Council candidates on Thursday, August 20, from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm at the Creston & District Community Complex (312 19th Ave. N).
Facilitated by local government leadership expert Christina Benty, the session aims to demystify the roles and responsibilities of local government and elected officials. Participants will gain insights into leadership practices and decision-making approaches that prioritize long-term stability and collaboration, while exploring how citizens can actively contribute to community-building and local decision-making.
A former mayor of the Town of Golden, Benty served 12 years in local government and has more than 25 years of experience serving on policy governance boards in health care, government, information technology, and community planning. She is passionate about leadership development, organizational culture, asset management, and community engagement, and believes in cultivating councils and boards that focus on governance rather than management.
“Your elected officials are your neighbours, your friends, and your fellow citizens,” said Benty. “We want to elect people who care; however, caring alone is not enough. Effective governance requires both understanding and practiced skills. The most effective elected officials are those who understand the system, not those who blame it.”
This dynamic and interactive session is limited to 50 participants, and pre-registration is required.
For more information about registering for the candidate information session or running to be a municipal candidate, visit www.creston.ca. As well, be sure to check out www.rdck.ca/elections for more information on becoming an electoral area candidate or the 2026 general local election.