Thinking of running for council? City Hall has some advice

Burlington, Ont.—Feb. 15, 2018—The municipal election on Oct. 22 brings great opportunities for residents to connect with local government by voting or running for City Council, which is the ultimate civic engagement.

If you are a potential candidate, here are some tips on where to get helpful information:

• Go straight to the source. The City of Burlington, the Province of Ontario and a number of municipal associations, including the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, have great information. Visit Burlington’s Election 2018 web pages.

• Attend workshops and information sessions hosted by experts. The municipal clerk’s office at the City of Burlington is your go-to place for election information. The election team will help you prepare for what to expect on a personal and professional level as a council member, how changes to the Municipal Elections Act will affect this year’s election and what your responsibilities are under the Municipal Elections Act.

• Mark your calendar for April 18 in Oakville. The City of Burlington is co-hosting an information session for residents who are interested in running in the 2018 Municipal Election.  “So you want to run for Council?” takes place at Oakville Town Hall from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, April 18. The free session will be led by municipal lawyer Fred Dean.  

• File your nomination papers between May 1 and July 27. You must be 18 years or older, a Canadian citizen and live in Burlington, or own land here or be the spouse of someone who does. More information and candidate criteria are available at the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing’s website.    

Burlington is one of Canada’s best and most livable cities, a place where people, nature and business thrive. Sign up to learn more about Burlington at www.burlington.ca/enews.

Quote

Angela Morgan, City Clerk

“An election is the ultimate opportunity for residents to engage with local government. I am   encouraged by the enthusiasm we see in those who host information sessions or provide information on the web. We also want to ensure that voters and potential candidates get the critical information they need, and that those who wish to run for City Council have a positive experience.”

Links and Resources
Election 2018: City of Burlington
Ministry of Municipal Affairs
Ontario Municipal Elections: AMO

Photos
Election 2018

-30-