ATHABASCA – One Town of Athabasca resident has put their name forward to fill the empty seat around the town council table, while several others have picked up packages they have yet to submit.
Nominations for the byelection, which will be held Monday, Feb. 13, provided more than one person lets their name stand, will be accepted at the town office until noon on Jan. 16. Those who have submitted their paperwork will then have 24 hours to reconsider before it becomes official.
If only one comes forward, they will be acclaimed to the position and serve out the remaining three years of the term, which started on October 2021.
Town council made the decision to call the byelection at the Nov. 15 regular meeting, following the disqualification and subsequent resignation of Coun. Loretta Prosser, who stepped down after attendance guidelines according to the Municipal Government Act could not be met.
In three straight readings, Bylaw 10-2022, for a 2023 municipal byelection, passed, setting nomination day for Jan. 16, next Monday, and the ultimate byelection day for Feb. 13, with polls open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. An advanced poll will also take place Thursday, Feb. 2, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. if necessary.
