Why should I run for elected municipal office?
For governments to be representative of, and responsive to, the needs of their constituents, their make-up should reflect the demographics of the constituency. As an elected official, you will
- bring the perspectives of your demographic to the decision-making table
- influence changes that benefit your community and ensure its sustainability
- put forward new ideas for debate and possible implementation and change
- make a positive difference in the quality of life in your community
- provide a voice for your community with other levels of government
- be part of a team that makes decisions that affect all aspects of community life
Do I have the skills and knowledge required to be an elected municipal official?
It’s not crucial to have education or experience in a government setting to run as a candidate. You likely have skills, knowledge and abilities that are transferable to the elected official’s role.
You may want to undertake a self-assessment of your skills prior to running for elected office.
Think about your:
- volunteer experience
- community involvement
- work experience
- membership in different organizations
- family life
Often your experiences have taught you how to:
- work as part of a team
- organize and prioritize
- make decisions
- debate
- lead
Am I qualified to be an elected municipal official?
The Local Government Election Act (LGEA) provides the requirements for candidates in municipal elections.
In the case of town, village and city elections, a person is qualified if
- on the day of election is 18 years of age: and
- at the time of submission of the nomination paper, is a Canadian citizen
- has resided in the municipality for at least three months and in Saskatchewan for at least six months.
In the case of a resort village
- on the day of election is 18 years of age; and
- at the time of submission of the nomination paper, is a Canadian citizen; and
- has resided in that resort village for at least three months; or
- has been the owner or lessee of assessable land in the resort village for at least three months
- has resided in Saskatchewan for at least six months; or
- is the spouse of a person above.
In the case of a rural municipality (RM)
- on the day of election is 18 years of age, and
- a Canadian citizen
- a resident of Saskatchewan
- is eligible to vote in the RM
- not disqualified by reason of any provision in the LGEA or any other Act.
