For the first time, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is hosting a candidate information session for people interested in running in the 2010 municipal election.  “So You Want to be a Candidate?” takes place on Wednesday, August 4 at Collège Boréal. It is the ideal forum for anyone wanting to know more about what it takes to run a successful campaign and work in municipal politics.

“The session will focus on many of the aspects and requirements needed to run an effective campaign and also what candidates can expect should they be elected,” says Phil Barton, Chair of the Municipal Affairs Committee, the committee organizing the event.  “Prospective candidates will have the opportunity to get a glimpse into the world of municipal politics.”

Speaking at the event will be Jack Watson, Clerk with the City of Timmins, who will inform prospective candidates of specific dates and requirements should they choose to run for election. Two previous city councilors, Kevin Vincent and Andrew Marks, will share their experiences, expertise and advise on both running a campaign and what one can expect if elected to council. Experienced campaign manager Bill Greenberg will provide information about the role of the campaign manager and how to run an effective campaign.

As a nonpartisan business advocacy organization the Chamber is continually engaged in the political process.  The Chamber’s Municipal Affairs Committee is organizing this session in an effort to engage more Timmins residents in local politics and demystifying some common perceptions about the process. The Chamber regularly hosts “Meet the Candidate” debates for municipal, provincial and federal elections. These sessions are hosted by the business community as a service to the general public and are designed to introduce candidates to the community and share their perspectives on important community and regional issues. 

“So You Want to be a Candidate?” will take place Wednesday, August 4 from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm at Collège Boréal.  The session is free of cost and open to any member of the public.  Coffee and muffins will be provided.  Interested parties can register by contacting the Chamber at 360-1900 or e-mailing events@timminschamber.on.ca.