Two local school divisions to cost share in upcoming municipal election

By John Watson Local Journalism initiative Reporter

Golden Hills and Christ the Redeemer school divisions have offered to engage in cost sharing for the upcoming municipal election. 

Pat Fule, though he did not specify how much the two divisions would be contributing, said the Town is very grateful for the support.

“We’ve been very happy that Golden Hills School Division and Christ the Redeemer school division are willing to step up and pay a portion of the costs that come about from running an election,” said Fule.

“Our election staff and our town and administrative staff have been in discussions with both school divisions and they were both very willing and interested in coming forward and helping with some of the costs involved in an election.”

Fule added it was a mutual decision in which all involved parties were willing to come to the table and talk about prior to the result being confirmed. 

Municipal elections, by and large, tend to cost in the realm of $30,000 to operate, according to Fule. This addresses the staff, relevant expenses and materials. Candidates who choose to run are responsible for funding their own campaigns. 

As the COVID-19 pandemic remains something to be of active consideration, Fule intends for the voting process to acknowledge that and be prepared for voters to come out and participate safely.

“We’re still in the midst of COVID-19 and the province has made some new mandates going forward, so we as a town and municipality have to be cognizant of making sure that people are going to be safe and protected when they come into our facilities to cast their ballots,” he said. “I’m not fully aware of how the people feel about coming in to vote. I’m sure that the town will make sure that it’s a definite, safe procedure and that they won’t have to be concerned.”

The deadline for candidate nominations passed at noon on Sept. 20. Advanced voting day is scheduled for Oct. 13, and Oct. 16. The Strathmore Civic Centre will be open with stations from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. both days for this purpose. 

Election Day itself is scheduled for Oct. 18, with voting stations set to be open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m.