After 15 years serving the people of South Kent as a member of municipal council, Karen Herman announced recently she would not seek re-election in October.
“It wasn’t an easy decision, but there comes a time where you really have to think about your next four years and if you are the person to dedicate your time or not,” she said. “I just think it’s time for me to step back and it’s time for new people to step up.”
Herman said it was a decision she pondered for several months.
“This is about me, and about my husband and my next chapter with him,” she explained.
Herman looks back on her time on council as humbling, especially when she was first elected.
“To be re-elected to a second term was awesome. And then three and then four later, I just kept going and kept on with what I believe was important to Chatham-Kent,” she explained. “It’s been a lot of work. I know I’ve dedicated my time to my community and worked to the best of my ability.”
Herman said some of her fondest accomplishments while on council include the improvements made at the Gable Rees Rotary Pool in Blenheim, and the fire hall in Erieau.
“I worked with a great bunch of volunteers when we did the expansion and addition to the Gable Rees Rotary Pool and making it a more inclusive and accessible space,” she said. “In Erieau, it was the fire hall/community space. The community needed a space to call its own.”
She offers advice to people who are considering taking a run at municipal politics.
“It’s all about the passion and what we can do for our residents. That’s what a councillor is,” she said.
Herman added she hopes to see more women seek a spot on council.
“Women in politics. It’s important that we have both (men and women) in politics. We need to bring the needs of everyone to the table,” she said. “I encourage women to step up and bring their passion and good ideas with them. Let’s keep Chatham-Kent moving in the right direction.”
But for now, Herman’s direction is towards her family.
“It was a hard decision, but it was the right one for myself and my family. I’m ready to explore the next adventure in my life and my next chapter,” she said. “I will still be there. I’m not walking away from the community.
“I feel good about my community and I feel good about serving. I do feel that it is my time (to step down),” she continued. “I’m looking forward to it. I’m an older adult now. I’m going to have some fun. I’m going to go camping.”
