The province is working with the Springtide Collective, a non-profit group, on a project to encourage Nova Scotians to get involved in local government.

“Municipal elections are coming up this fall and I’m encouraging talented, community-minded Nova Scotians to run for local office,” said Municipal Affairs Minister Zach Churchill. “Our work with the Springtide Collective will help prepare candidates to run and also ask Nova Scotians to make a commitment to vote.”

Starting in April, Springtide will run three campaign schools around the province. Through these one-day sessions, participants will learn about rules for candidates and how to run effective campaigns. Both experienced and new candidates are welcome to attend. Dates and locations are at http://LocalDecisions.ca .

“Nova Scotia is full of people who have something to contribute to local government, but not everyone has the experience necessary to run an effective election campaign, and that’s where the campaign school can help,” said Mark Coffin, executive director of the Springtide Collective. “First-time and infrequent voters often face a similar challenge. Our work will help voters and candidates navigate and participate meaningfully in local elections this fall.”

Springtide will also use the website and social media to help voters learn about the election process and encourage voting this fall. They aim to engage Nova Scotians through @LocalDecisions on Twitter and www.facebook.com/LocalDecisions .

Municipal elections in Nova Scotia are held every four years on the third Saturday in October. This year, general election day is Oct. 15.

Source: Release