Local municipalities seeking candidates for the upcoming election. (File photo/northeastNOW)

By Cam Lee

Municipal election nominations

Municipal election nomination period opening in local communities

Sep 19, 2024 | 5:15 PM

The municipal election is less than two months away, and several local communities have opened their call for nominations.

Residents of Melfort looking to seek a spot at the council table can submit their nominations at City Hall or on the city’s website until 4 p.m. on Oct 9.

Melfort City Clerk Lydia Steffen explained the process to northeastNOW.

“A candidate can submit a fully completed nomination package to our Election Officials at City Hall during regular office hours,” Steffen said. “Nomination papers are available at City Hall and on the City’s website.

There is also a grace period for candidates in Melfort who may change their mind about running. The withdrawal deadline is Oct. 10 at 4 p.m.

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Traditionally, civic elections have a relatively low turnout compared to their provincial or federal counterparts. Melfort’s voter turnout has varied significantly since 1997, from a high of 52 percent in 2006 to the 2020 and 2000 elections at just 28 percent turnout. The average turnout in Melfort over the last eight civic elections is slightly under 39 percent.

Steffen said the same trend is true of provincial and federal elections. Provincial election turnout has gone from an over 70 per cent average turnout in the 1980s and early 1990s to under 54 per cent in the last three elections. Federally, the turnout was largely well over 70 per cent until dipping between 58 and 69 per cent since.

“The city looks for opportunities to make changes that have a beneficial effect on the voter turnout rate by improving the voting process and addressing any accessibility concerns,” said Steffen. “We also look at continued improvement in the areas of education and administration of elections.”

Steffen said the municipal elections are crucial, allowing people to provide leadership and vision for the future of Melfort.

“Councillors represent the voices and concerns of our community and play a crucial role in ensuring that local government operates transparently and is accountable to its citizens. They oversee budgets, policies, and city management to ensure resources are used effectively and that needs and interests of residents are heard and addressed.”

The City of Humboldt’s nomination process is open from Sept. 24 to Oct 9. Nipawin’s nomination process opened Thursday and is open through Oct. 8. Hudson Bay, like Melfort, opened their nominations on Monday and they remain open until Oct. 9.

Municipal elections will be held province-wide Nov. 13.

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Cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @northeastNOW_SK