A federal election is both an enormous opportunity for municipal officials, and a risky situation. It's like being on a teeter-totter on the playground when the fat kid jumps off.

First, the candidates. Some elected or former mayors and councillors will be nominated. If currently elected, they will almost certainly take an unpaid leave of absence. That leaves a hole in an existing council for the weeks of the campaign; it also could be a conduit to a local cabinet minister. Jackpot!

Second, national leaders are much more freely available to local officials when they are campaigning in the region. In fact, many are anxious to be seen at interesting local photo-ops. They often swing by city hall, listening to local issues and sometimes making interesting promises.

Third, a municipality can raise important issues and questions during local debates and campaigns. The key one, of course, remains how to best change the system of funding for municipalities across Canada.

Fourth, this election offers some very large, indeed existential, questions that we must confront as a nation. Municipalities are the backbone of any country. Without strong local government and prosperous communities, any nation is weakened. That point doesn't always seem to be clear to federal candidates.

Finally, whatever new government that will take office in a few weeks will get the chance for a national reset. To bring fresh ideas and new priorities. To present a new organizational structure for the federal government. To set Canada on a clear global path with a strong mandate. That only happens once.

All elections are important. My sense, however, is that many Canadians feel this election is of particular importance. They will be watching the leaders and candidates closely. They will be studying issues and promises shrewdly. And most importantly, there will be some intense discussions around the kitchen table before they go out to vote.

Canada's 4,000 towns and cities remain the anchor, the core, the centre of where families live and work and play. Our cities are the beating heart of most of Canada's economic success. They are where innovation and research and investment occur. We must compete on the global stage now; we need to adjust better to that reality.

In a month, the election will be held. A few days after that, a new government will be sworn in. And soon after that, we begin the hard push for a new deal for Canadian municipalities.