This past week something was taking place in our city which was below the radar for most, yet it was an example of how communication is an important part of politics.
Yorkton’s Mayor Bob Maloney spent time talking with business people in our city.
These were not formalized talks, but were instead much more akin to looking at local issues over a cup of coffee.
It’s not a new process. The Mayor has done such walkabouts before. That he continues to undertake the effort itself suggests there is a benefit from the City’s point of view.
Of course that should be obvious.
Business people are major taxpayers in a municipality. They pay on the residential side for their homes, and again on the business side. So their interest is in a sense doubled.
They have an understanding of what it takes to be successful in business, and how a municipal government can play a role in that success.
And such success is important as it means more people employed, owning homes in the city, using municipal facilities, and making the community vibrant.
That does not mean the business sector should have complete say in what happens at City Hall, but their viewpoint should at least be part of the process when developing policy.
In general the Mayor and Council are open to dialogue on issues, and business stays aware of what is going on at City Hall through efforts such as the local Chamber of Commerce having someone attending every Council meeting.
But we know too that often the best dialogue and sharing of ideas comes in the less formal settings. Having the Mayor stop in for coffee and informally listen to how the City might help a local business is a good way to share thoughts.
Being available, and listening, are important political skills, and while there will be times local government and business may not see eye-to-eye if the two sides can talk things out over that coffee, they are going to find more common ground than opposing viewpoints.
