Running for Municipal Office

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)

• is eligible to vote in the RM
• not disqualified by reason of any provision in the LGEA or any other Act.