A group of Prince George women got an introduction to municipal politics this weekend.
The Federation of Canadian Municipalities hosted a two-day workshop in the city aimed at increasing the number of women in local government.
"I'm more enthusiastic than ever," participant Dorothy Friesen said. "Finding the right [campaign] team is going to be the challenge."
Friesen said the workshop answered many of the questions she had about running a campaign.
"What I wanted to know is how far in advance you need to start. The answer was, 'a year ago,'" Friesen said. "I also wanted to know the costs of running a campaign in Prince George to have a serious chance. And the research that I had to do prior to October."
On Saturday attendees heard from Mackenzie Mayor Stephanie Killam, local city councillors Shari Green and Debora Munoz, and Fraser-Fort George Regional District director Lara Beckett. Sunday they focused on media awareness.
Carrie Forbes said after attending the workshop, she'll take some additional time to decide if she wants to run for office.
"It hadn't occurred to me that you're on call, 24-7. The hours are just incredible. You're part-time, but working full-time hours," Forbes said. "It's a difficult choice when you have a family and obligations."
Sherry Ogasawara she still hasn't made up her mind if she will run for office this November.
"We still live in a society where women, as much as like to think we are equal, we're not equal in all ways," Ogasawara said.
Balancing family responsibilities, work and the duties of a city councilor are a challenge, she said.
"I have three children myself," Ogasawara said. "How to find a way to balance that is the challenge."
