Running for Municipal Office
The Town of Watson Lake is holding a Municipal Councillor By-Election to fill one (1) vacant Councillor position for the reminder of the current Council's term. This important role helps determine the strategic goals and priorities for the municipality and makes key decisions that help shape the future of our community.
Interested in running? Check out the links below for information about the roles and responsibilities of municipal councils, or visit us at the Town Office, Monday through Friday from 8am-4:30pm.
Key Dates
Wednesday, September 9, 2026
- Preliminary list of electors is published – visit the Town Office to view
- Applications to register as an elector/registered voter can be obtained at the Town Office (710 Adela Trail) between the hours of 8:30am and 4:30pm, Monday through Friday
- Councillor Nominations open – Candidate Packages will be
available at the Town Office (710 Adela Trail) between the hours of 8:30am and
4:30pm, Monday through Friday
Thursday, September 24, 2026
- Nomination deadline – Nomination papers must be
submitted to the Town Office no later than Noon on this day
Monday, October 5, 2026
- Special Ballots applications and voting
available upon request
Tuesday, October 13, 2026
- Mobile Poll available between the hours of 8:30am - 4:00pm on this day. Anyone needing to vote by mobile poll can contact the Returning Officer by telephone at (867) 334-6566.
Thursday, October 15, 2026
- Election Day – Regular poll held at the Morgan Chaddock Hall at the Watson Lake Recreation Centre between the hours of 8:00am and 8:00pm.
- Special Ballot poll closes at 2:00pm on this day.
References & Guides
Joy of Governing - A how-to guide for optimal governance.
Town of Watson Lake 2026 Municipal Councillor By-Election Bylaw 2026-04
Association of Yukon Communities
Federation of Canadian Municipalities
Informative Videos - clink links below
· The joy of community-building: Why you should run for office
· One vote, many voices: Skills councillors need
· Decisions, decisions!: What I wish I know before I was elected?
· Timing is everything: Time commitment of being a councillor
· The learning never ends: tips for getting up to speed as a councillor
· Knowing your role: Governance versus administration
· Mayors and reeves: What's their role?
· Media Relations: tips for engaging with media
· Communication is Key: Communicating with residents and balancing priorities