A number of months ago, when I first started working with the Engineering Department at City Hall, I was able to observe the inner workings of our city. From these observations and experiences I started to identify areas where I believed things could be improved.
As time passed, I continued to ponder these observations. I started to read and watch more news and found myself wanting to become more involved in our community. My thoughts then became clear, “If I were on city council I could help to make things better.”
There was an election coming in the near future and all over people could be heard saying, “we need more women and youth running for city council.”
My decision made, I threw my hat into the ring and went for it. I was confident in my ideas and abilities but the questions remained, was my plan strong enough? Could I communicate this to the residents of Corner Brook? Would the public genuinely support a young candidate?
Instead of sitting down and waiting for answers I decided to go out and create my own. I was eventually able to bring together a small team of people who could help contribute towards my successful campaign. With their support and my family proudly behind me, I hit the ground running.
Over the following weeks I immersed myself in going door-to-door speaking with residents in their homes. I looked for every opportunity to attend public events, participated in candidates’ forum, and took my campaign directly to the streets of Corner Brook. I knew I was facing a monumental challenge but I was swiftly empowered by the level of support I received throughout the community. I began to find joy and a sense of pride in my 'musings at the lunch table' and my 'historic Sunday' posts. I was now more confident and excited for the Election Day to come.
On a rainy Tuesday morning, Sept. 26, 2017, Election Day arrived. I donned my rain jacket, and walked out my door, sign in hand. I was proud of my performance so far and excited to experience the ballot count ahead. As the night unfolded I received 1,924 votes, only 394 away from a spot on City Council. I did not struggle to sleep that night. I found myself feeling satisfied and accomplished. Receiving that level of support on my first campaign had me looking positively into the future, enthusiastic with what I will do next.
I would like to express my best wishes to Jim Parsons and the six councillors of the City of Corner Brook. I look forward to seeing the impact you will have on our community.
I look forward to the future of our city. I will be asking questions to those who have served and are currently serving on city council to learn more and become better informed. I will be looking for opportunities to support and promote our city. I will continue to encourage new ideas and look forward to more conversations with each of you.
I am even more passionate about becoming involved to try to make a positive difference to our community.
Once again, thanks to everyone for this most amazing of experiences.
Devon Pardy, Corner Brook