The Town of Okotoks won’t need to hold a byelection.
The Town received a ministerial order from Minister of Municipal Affairs Ric McIver on May 8, meaning it doesn’t need to fill a vacancy on Okotoks council until next year’s general election.
“I am pleased that Minister McIver agreed with council’s position on holding a byelection so close to the upcoming general election period,” said chief administrative officer Elaine Vincent. “This decision will allow us to continue focusing on council’s established priorities, without the distraction of hosting a costly byelection.”
On March 22, a press release from the Town stated that Coun. Cheryl Actemichuk provided a letter of resignation that took effect the day prior.
The press release said Actemichuk made the decision to step down due to personal reasons.
Her resignation came about 19 months before the next general election, scheduled for October 2025. A byelection is needed if a council seat is vacated more than 18 months before the next general election, according to the Municipal Government Act.
During its meeting on March 25, council unanimously agreed to request an extension that would allow the seat to remain vacant until the general election, rather than immediately moving ahead with a byelection.
