By: Jennifer Beard When Boissevain–Morton’s council and municipal staff opened the doors on April 9th for A Seat at the Table , they weren’t just hosting an information session—they were extending an invitation. The evening brought together guests, councillors, and staff for an honest, engaging look at what it means to serve in local government, why people choose to run, and how residents can step forward as leaders in their community. The idea for the event grew from Hea

By Lorri Matthewson (Founder and Lead Consultant Matthewson & Co.) www.smallplacesrock.com Municipalities run on a combination of legislation, bylaws, policies, and day-to-day administrative practices. In theory, these elements work together to create a transparent, consistent, and legally compliant system of local governance. In reality, many municipalities rely far more on practice than on policy—and often don’t realize that there could be consequences. Across the muni

By: Jennifer Beard www.smallplacesrock.com Elaine Froese’s work didn’t begin with a business plan or a grand strategy. It began with a deep understanding of farm life and a genuine desire to help families communicate better. Long before she became known as a farm family transition expert, she was “Miss Home Ec” with Manitoba Agriculture back in 1978, travelling to farms and supporting families with the everyday challenges of rural life. Those early years set the foundation