Taylor councillor marks two decades serving the public

TAYLOR, B.C. — A Taylor local has celebrated a milestone anniversary as she completes 20 years as a councillor. 

In a Facebook post, the District of Taylor is seen celebrating Councillor Betty Ponto as she completes 20 years of service. 

Ponto said: “Saturday was the 20th anniversary of my first oath of office. It has been a journey.

“It’s been educational, rewarding and engaging.” 

Ponto’s interest in helping and shaping what’s going on in the community inspired her to become a councillor. She told Energeticcity.ca: “I’ve been a part of various non-profit organizations for a number of years. 

“It’s a puzzle where you have all these different ideas, things and curtailments that affect and you’re trying to get somewhere. 

“So basically, it’s just wanting to be involved in shaping your community.” 

Ponto felt the most challenged as a councillor when Covid-19 hit.

“When Covid and all of its regulations and rules came down, budgeting through that was an absolutely horrendous process and I would never want to go through that again,” she said, adding it was the worst and most frustrating time. 

In contrast, Ponto told Energeticcity.ca about a time very early in her career when she felt completely satisfied with her work.

She said: “We were able to increase our water capacity through a grant where we were able to add a third well to our water system and a second reservoir and a new main line.” 

Ponto said she feels blessed to have had the opportunity to sit with a very diverse council all these years. 

She said: “Each member is involved in different aspects of the community. 

“Whether we agree or disagree, it’s never taken personally. 

“We may disagree with things at the council table but when we are away from that, it is left at the table and I’ve just been very blessed with that.” 

As a councillor, Ponto has learned many things in her personal life as well. She said: “It does take time away from your family and your personal life, but it’s such an education.

“One thing that really sticks out in my mind of being honoured and learning was when the Spirit of the Peace Pow Wow first came to Taylor and we were invited to take part in it. 

“There was a joke going around that we came for a few hours and stayed for three days.” 

Ponto feels that through this event, all she had learned about Indigenous culture has really stuck with her. 

Looking ahead to the new year, Ponto hopes the provincial or federal governments will do something about the Taylor Bridge. 

She said: “That project was already defined as a need when I first came on council.” 

As a councillor, Ponto wants the Taylor community to engage not just online or on social media. 

“When things come out, whether it’s our Official Community Plan or a survey, we’re truly asking for your honest input and suggestions,” she said.