Malcolm Gorrill
Northern News Services

Inuvik (July 27/01) - A desire to contribute helped Coun. Clarence Wood become vice-president representing cities, towns and villages for the NWT Association of Municipalities.

"I felt through the number of associations I have in other groups that I was in a good position to offer advice and recruit new members," explained Wood.

He was elected to a two-year term last month during the association's annual general meeting in Norman Wells. Previously Wood had been a director with the association.

Wood said the fact that Tuktoyaktuk Mayor Ernest Pokiak is vice-president for hamlets, charter communities and settlements will help provide this region with a strong voice within the association.

Wood said the NWTAM, which was formed in 1967, has developed a good working relationship with MLAs, and that the territorial government often -- though not always -- heeds association resolutions.

"Since I've gotten involved I've found it to be very worthwhile," Wood said.

He noted that last year, when NWT municipalities were confronted with a 50 per cent increase in insurance rates, the association successfully lobbied for the territorial government to provide a one-time relief payment.

The NWTAM is hardly the only organization in which Wood is involved. He's been on town council nearly three years, and is into his second term with the Inuvik District Education Authority.

Wood is also a member of the NWT Board of Revision for the general taxation area, acting chair of the Inuvik Housing Authority, and a board member on Inuvik Alcohol Committee and the Inuvik Justice Committee.

Wood is vice-president with Friends of Delta House, and is involved with the Utilities Committee.

That's in addition to Wood's full-time job at the Department of Education, Culture and Employment. And three months ago he took on a part-time job as contract liquor inspector for the town.

"I certainly am never bored," Wood said with a laugh. "I very seldom have an evening where I'm home before 10 p.m."

Wood said he used to sit back and complain about how things were run in town, until -- with some prodding from his wife -- he decided to become involved.

"We all think, or like to think, that we do this and make a difference. Whether we do or not is maybe another opinion," Wood said.

"It's better to take part, at least try to influence things, and represent the public. I don't think anybody gets involved in this sort of thing because of the money because, believe me, it's not worth it."