So this is off topic but, does anyone know if it says anywhere on the duluthmn.gov page what the commitment is of our city counselors? Like how many hours each week? What/do they get paid? A more comprehensive job description?

I've always wanted to know.

Thanks Paul.  To be honest, in the past I was interested in running but was unsure if I could handle the time commitment along with my full-time job.

Natalie, Roger Reinert told our Leadership Duluth cohort he earned roughly $2 an hour as a councilor.

That said, don't let the money dissuade you from running.  No politician does it for the salary.  Most have full-time jobs in addition to their elected offices.

Here are some traits of successful city councilors.

1. Strong focus on [customer] service. As Paul said, a lot of time is spent answering questions and fulfilling constituent needs.

2. Good time management and prioritization skills. Many councilors work full time, and some aspects of the job can be complex depending on your skill sets. Know when to ask for help and/or defer to others. Likewise, play to your strengths.

3. Plays well with others. Forget the circus you see on the media or at the council meetings. Can you work well behind the scenes? Can you give and take?

4. Know when to get into details and when not to. Pothole politicians can get lost in the minutia and are demagogues.

4. What is your platform? Three to five simple bullet points max. They need to tell a story about you, your beliefs and your goals/dreams for the city. Oh, and they need to synthesize with voters so that you may win an election. "Greening Duluth" will win you the college and hippee vote. IOW, they don't vote and you will lose. Things like "creating jobs" and "reducing crime" will help you win.

5. Money wins elections. Period. Spend a little bit when you launch. Not much in the middle, and most of it in the last month. In the middle, focus on grassroots efforts like fund raising and flesh pressing with constituents and politicos. At the end, it's all about direct mailing (remember that old people vote), media relations and social media.