Residents still have one more week to vote for their future Mayor and Councillors, and so far in Kenora, about one in five residents have cast their ballots.
Returning Officer for the 2022 Municipal Election, Heather Pihulak, says as of October 17, about 20 per cent of eligible voters in Kenora have voted – which is right on target compared to the previous two electronic elections in the community.
“It is completely in line with the 2018 election and the turn-out stats to date. We are sitting at 20 per cent turnout. Currently, 2,240 people have voted to date,” she said.
Pihulak notes that on average, about 50 per cent of the community votes in each municipal election.
“We see a spike on the first day when the polls open, it does drop off, and you see the highest number of voters on the last day,” she adds.
By now, registered voters should have received an information letter from the City of Kenora with instructions on how to vote by internet or by phone, with a PIN number.
If not, Pihulak explains that City Hall’s Council Chambers are set up as Kenora’s Election Headquarters to help voters with any issues.
Residents are able to be added to the Voters’ list and receive their PIN in person. You can also call the headquarters at 807-467-2975. As well, you can find an online form at Kenoravotes.ca to be added to the list.
“It’s very, very important that members of the public have their voice in who they believe are the best candidates to lead the city for the next four years. It’s super easy and doesn’t take much time at all,” Pihulak adds.
If residents need help voting, municipal staff have been out in the community assisting people with voting – and you can also visit City Hall between 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday, as well as Saturday, October 22.
The Municipal Election will be called on the night of October 24, shortly after 8 p.m.