What is my role as councillor?

Good governance is a team effort. As a member of Goderich Council—working alongside five councillors, the Deputy Mayor, and the Mayor—my priority is representing the community, not a personal agenda. I listen to local concerns, bring public perspectives to council discussions, and stay engaged at community events. I take seriously my core responsibilities: studying and voting on municipal budgets, creating strategic plans, and passing effective by-laws.

It is also my role to be a council representative to serve on committees and bring recommendations back to the council as a whole to make a decision.

I don’t expect to agree with every decision made at the council table, but once a decision is made, it stands, I support and I leave the debate in the chamber. It is also vital to understand that no individual councillor—including myself—has the authority to direct town staff or make unilateral decisions outside of a council vote. We only have authority when we act together as a full council. There is no “I” in “TEAM.”

Effective governance also requires clarity on jurisdiction. Below is a breakdown of the distinct responsibilities for each level of government:

As you can see by this chart, there are things that the municipality is not in charge of maintaining. The County of Huron is responsible for many things including but not limited to social housing, mental health programs, paramedic services and policing. It becomes more clear when conversations are held to clear up any confusion.

Government at any level is complex and hard to understand at times. But learning, questioning and educating are key. Those are my philosophies and strengths.

As always, I encourage you to reach out with any concerns, questions or comments.

Re-Elect Liz Petrie | Councillor – Town of Goderich | 2026-2030

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