Civic election kickoff around the corner

In less than two weeks, Saskatoon’s municipal election will officially get underway. Here’s what you need to know about the election season.

GET YOUR NAME IN

Nominations officially open at 8 a.m. on Sept. 6. While the forms can be downloaded online, they must be filed in person at Saskatoon City Hall. It costs $100 to run. Returning officer Catherine Folkerson’s office on the second floor will be open for nominations from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday until Sept. 21. On Sept. 21, nominations close at 4 p.m. Candidates who pull out of the race within 24 hours after nominations close can get their money back.

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT

Supporters can start displaying signs on lawns and boulevards starting at 12:01 a.m. on Sept. 11. City rules limit the size of signs on residential properties and boulevards and prohibit the use of flashing lights, kites or electronic components. Signs must be removed within seven days after the election.

SLOW START

Folkerson, the city’s first returning officer, said she has not received many inquiries so far about election rules. Voting for city council and the Catholic and public school boards takes place on Oct. 26.

RAISING MONEY

City council grappled with several changes to election spending rules recommended by an independent municipal review commission. Ultimately, the most significant change adopted for this election was requiring the names of donors who contribute $100 or more to be publicly disclosed (the previous threshold was $250). Mayoral candidates can spend $200,749.96 on their campaigns, while councillor candidates can spend $20,074.96.