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Running For Municipal Office
This page provides candidates and potential candidates for municipal office answers to key questions:
This was developed in partnership by Alberta Municipal Affairs, the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association, and the Rural Municipalities of Alberta.
The decision to run for municipal office is not an easy one to make. Not only is running a campaign a big commitment, but winning an election means dedicating the next four years (at least) to supporting your community. In the videos below, RMA and AUMA board members provide their input on some of the most common questions asked by those interested in running for municipal office, and discuss what it is like to be a municipal elected official.
Running for municipal office may seem intimidating, but Municipal Affairs has prepared a number of resources to help potential candidates understand the process.
The 2021 Candidates Guide provides a detailed overview of what to consider prior to seeking nomination as a candidate, the nomination process, campaign financing, and how to campaign. Please note that the 2021 Candidates Guide includes some specific information temporary alterations to address COVID-19 public health and safety protocols.
For additional general information on municipal elections and election processes, we encourage you to review this extensive suite of resources developed to support municipalities and returning officers in conducting their respective municipal elections.
For specific questions related to your municipality’s nomination, campaigning, and election process, visit your municipality’s website. Some municipalities have an election webpage with an election information package and returning officer contact information. If you are unable to find this information for your municipality, use the main municipality contact number or email for any inquiries.
As noted above, the 2021 Candidates Guide has been modified where applicable to address specific changes made to the election process to address public health guidelines related to COVID-19.
Furthermore, Alberta Municipal Affairs has developed a COVID-19 Risk Reduction Guide for the upcoming 2021 municipal elections. For more information, please review the guide.
If you’ve been elected to council, congratulations! Now the real work begins. You will be receiving plenty of new information from your municipality on key issues you need to focus on, as well as council and committee meeting schedules. For more guidance on how to be ready to succeed in your new role from day one, check out the resources and educational opportunities below.
Recognizing that economic development is on the minds of many candidates. Alberta Jobs, Economy and Innovation has developed a video on Economic Development for Elected Officials. The 15 minute video explains what economic development is, what drives it, the role of elected officials, where to begin, and tips for success. In addition the video highlights further support and information available from the Ministry’s Regional Economic Development Services and Economic Developers Alberta.
If you still have questions, connect with Municipal Affairs:
In addition to the joint work above, the RMA has developed two other documents that may be beneficial for anyone looking to run for election this year:
For more information on these, please contact Wyatt Skovron, RMA Senior Policy Advisor, by phone 780.955.4096 or email.