THINKING OF RUNNING FOR COUNCIL IN THE 2025 MUNICIPAL ELECTION?
If you’re considering serving your community as a council member, here’s what you need to know:
ELIGIBILITY
To qualify as a municipal candidate, you must:
- be eligible to vote in the municipal election
- have lived in the jurisdiction for at least six (6) consecutive months before Nomination Day.
If you want to launch your campaign BEFORE January 1, 2025:
SUBMIT A WRITTEN NOTICE OF INTENT
BEFORE launching your campaign, you are required to submit a written Notice of Intent to the local returning officer.
ONCE ACCEPTED, you can:
- Officially act as a candidate.
- Accept campaign contributions.
- Incur campaign expenses.
- This process is governed by the Local Authorities Election Act and the Expense Limits Regulation.
If you launch your campaign AFTER January 1, 2025:
Option One: Notice of Intent
*you are still required to complete the nomination papers prior to September 22, 2025
BEFORE launching your campaign, you are required to submit a written Notice of Intent to the local returning officer.
ONCE ACCEPTED, you can:
- Officially act as a candidate.
- Accept campaign contributions.
- Incur campaign expenses.
- This process is governed by the Local Authorities Election Act and the Expense Limits Regulation.
Option Two: Complete the Nomination Papers
- View or Download the Candidate Information Package
- Submit completed Nomination Form to Annette Boissonnault, Returning Officer
FILING DEADLINES
For general elections, nomination papers can be submitted anytime from January 1 until September 22, 2025.
PHOTO AND BIO
To keep voters informed about the candidates, we request that you provide the following materials for inclusion on the Town's website:
- A passport-style digital photo (high-resolution, 480 x 672 pixels, 150 ppi).
- A brief bio and candidate statement (maximum 250 words), explaining your reasons for running for Council.
Please note that submissions will not be edited for grammar or spelling.
Submit your photo, bio, and statement to:
Annette Boissonnault, Returning Officer
TIME COMMITMENT AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Elected officials serve a four-year term and are expected to:
- Attend council meetings, committee sessions, and local events.
- Prepare by reviewing agendas and consulting with community members.
- Work collaboratively with council colleagues and administration.
PREPARE FOR SUCCESS
Resources to help you get ready:
- Read council agendas, minutes, and local bylaws.
- Attend council meetings to observe the process.
- Speak with current council members for insights.
- Familiarize yourself with the Local Authorities Election Act and the Municipal Government Act to understand your legal responsibilities.
Serving on council is a rewarding way to make a difference in your community. Start preparing now to make your mark!
APPENDICES TO THE CANDIDATE NOMINATION PACKAGE
- Appendix A: Notice of Intent
- Appendix B: Nomination Paper and Candidate’s Acceptance (Form 4)
- Appendix C: Release of Candidate and Official Agent Information Forms
- Appendix D: Election Signs- Town of Westlock and Provincial Roadways Information
- Appendix E: Candidate Financial Information (Form 5)
will be provided to candidates as soon as Municipal Affairs releases the updated forms - Appendix F: Enumerator, Candidate or Official Agent Proof of Identification for Section 52 Access (Form 11)
will be provided to candidates as soon as Municipal Affairs releases the updated forms - Appendix G: Campaign Worker Proof of Identification (Form 12)
will be provided to candidates as soon as Municipal Affairs releases the updated forms - Appendix H: Statement of Scrutineer or Official Agent (Form 16)
will be provided to candidates as soon as Municipal Affairs releases the updated forms - Appendix I: List of Town Committees, Boards and Commissions
- Appendix J: Guidelines for Positive Campaigning in Municipal Elections
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
- Council Procedure Bylaw 2021-13
- Council Remuneration Policy P-57-2014
- Local Authorities Election Act (Alberta Queen's Printer)