Winkler Mayor Henry Siemens is encouraging those considering running in the upcoming councillor by-election to get their nomination papers in by the November 6th deadline. Nominations are being accepted starting Thursday.
With the recent passing of former councillor Don Fehr, and there being two years left in the current municipal term, the city had a legal requirement to fill the seat.
"We've started that process, We're busy doing that now," said Siemens. "There's lots of information on our website. Go to cityofwinkler.ca, Head to the City Hall section and there look for a tab called Municipal Elections. Everything that you need to know, if you're anticipating planning to run, or maybe encouraging somebody to run, is there."
What should a candidate posses?
Siemens believes, for anyone who has ever considered running, this is a great time to put their name forward.
"If you've looked at this in the past, and said four years is just too long, here's an opportunity to run, serve for two years, and then make a decision if this is something that's for you or not," he said.
And who does the Mayor feel should consider running? Those who have a passion for the community and want to improve it.
"We have an amazing community," he shared. "There are certainly some things we could improve on, we're always looking for additional voices there, but if you've had an interest in being one of the people that has an opportunity to hear those concerns, and then act on those concerns, this is your chance to do so."
Election day is Thursday, December 12th, with the Meridian Exhibition Centre the voting location. Polls will be open from 8am to 8pm.
The winner will join Councillors Andrew Froese, Michael Grenier, Don Friesen, Marvin Plett, Peter Froese and Mayor Henry Siemens.