Candidate information forum

 

Municipal elections are being held for seven district representatives in Wheatland County on Oct. 21, 2013, and the call is going out for community minded representatives to serve for terms of four years. 

“Everyone is eligible to run for election provided they meet the requirements of the Elections Act. Really, it generally limits almost no one from running – everyone has the opportunity if they so choose,” said Wheatland County Chief Administrative Officer Alan Parkin.

If you are considering whether you might want to let your name stand, a candidate information session might be worth your time. It is offered 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., Aug. 29, 2013 at the Best Western Port ‘O Call in Calgary. The Candidate Orientation is put on by the Society of Local Government Managers. Information and registration forms can be downloaded at www.albertaleaders.ca 

Municipal Affairs is also encouraging municipalities to host video conferences for candidates through library, school board or company facilities. The broadcast is Sept. 16, with an election official refresher at 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and info for prospective candidates from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Technical hookup requirements are on the municipal website and more information can be obtained from Tony Sykora at Alberta Municipal Affairs, tony.sykora@gov.ab.ca or 780-422-8125.

To be a candidate in the County election, you must be eligible to vote and live in the County for six months. You will need at least five eligible voters to nominate you and you need to be familiar with the parts of the Local Authorities Election Act indicated on the nomination form. 

Some responsibilities of a good councillor are:

to keep the welfare and interests of the community as a whole and present any information that may affect the community,

be able to fulfill all council appointed duties 

develop and evaluate policy and programs 

communicate with administration and staff 

maintain confidentiality for private matters

attend and participate in council meetings and appointed committees. 

There are close to 40 committees on which various council members serve. There are also conferences, conventions, seminars, training and social obligations vying for a councillor’s time. Reading and public interaction is an integral part of the job. A good understanding of a councillor’s authoritative powers and county administration practises is good preparation. Familiarity with county issues and policies will also be needed.

There are some ineligibility factors outlined in the Election Act. For complete details check the Election Act accessed through www.municipalaffairs.alberta.ca/mc_elections.cfm