Interested in running for municipal council in the next election? Deciding to run for municipal office is a significant undertaking. Winning an election means dedicating a considerable amount of time and effort to your community.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible as a municipal candidate, you must meet certain requirements. You must be at least 18 years old, a Canadian citizen, and have been a resident of the ward where you wish to run for six consecutive months preceding Nomination Day.
However, there are certain disqualifications, which include, but are not limited to:
- If you are the auditor of the municipality
- If your property taxes owe more than $50 (excluding indebtedness on current taxes and indebtedness for arrears of taxes for which the person has entered into a consolidation agreement with the municipality)
- If you are in default for any other debt to the municipality in excess of $500 for more than 90 days
- If you have been convicted of an offence under the Local Authorities Election Act, the Election Act, the Election Finances and Contributions Disclosure Act, or the Canada Elections Act within the previous 10 years.
For additional information and eligibility criteria, please refer to the Candidates Guide: Running for Municipal Office in Alberta document on the Government of Alberta website.
Information for Prospective Candidates
There are seven (7) wards within the County of Northern Lights. Each ward has a representative that sits on Council. You may find detailed information on ward boundaries in the Electoral Boundaries Bylaw No. 13-11-313.
- Ward One: Weberville - Stewart
- Ward Two: Warrensville - Lac Cardinal
- Ward Three: Dixonville - Chinook Valley
- Ward Four: Deadwood - Sunny Valley
- Ward Five: North Star - Breaking Point
- Ward Six: Hotchkiss - Hawk Hills
- Ward Seven: Keg River - Carcajou
Only after the Returning Officer has received your Notice of Intent To Run form may you begin your municipal campaign.
The 2025 General Municipal Election is for a 4-year term. As a member of council, you will have the opportunity to significantly influence the future of your community. Your power as a member of council depends on your ability to persuade the other members of council to adopt your view. All decisions must be made at meetings held in public, at which a quorum is present.
The County of Northern Lights Municipal Elections Guide will be available for any resident that is interested in being nominated as a candidate for the 2025 Election. The guide is a resource of roles and responsibilities of an Elected Official, election information, legislation, forms, and other helpful information one should consider before submitting nomination papers.
Of course, the best way to understand the job of an Elected Official is to attend or view a Council meeting, read a Council agenda, or Council minutes. Talk to current or previous members of Council and talk to the Chief Administrative Officer, (CAO) Gerhard Stickling.
This will help you in your decision to become a candidate, in your campaign, and assist you in assuming office. Remember, once you are elected, you have a duty to your community.