SASKATOON — Elections Saskatoon Officer Shellie Bryant encourages residents to exercise their right to choose the city's next leaders, adding that they made voting more accessible for people to vote. The election is on Wednesday, Nov. 13.
Advance polls ended on Monday; post-secondary advance polls from Nov. 5 to 6 were for eligible students, faculty and staff at the University of Saskatchewan’s Place Riel and at the Saskatchewan Polytechnic.
The special polls from Nov. 4 to 8 are for the city's 40 retirement homes and long-term care facilities, except for the hospitals and Parkridge Centre. The city has also set up drive-thru voting on Nov. 9, Saturday, from 10 am to 6 pm at the City Hall parking lot.
Bryant said every election, especially next week, is an opportunity for residents to decide the members of the City Council—mayor and 10 councillors—that would create policies and prioritize the programs that affect our daily lives.
“Taking out school boards aside, we are just managing their elections for them, and you are making your vote for the next local government. Our council makes those decisions on parks, programming, streets, and what community services the city provides,” said Bryant.
“If those things are important, get out there and vote. This year, more than ever, every vote counts. With new council members and a mayoral race on the ballot, the future of our local government is in your hands.”
Bryant added that residents are not just voting for local government but leaders who would set the course of the direction of the city and make decisions from road maintenance, community programs, and public spaces where we will live, work, and play.
This year’s election has 93 candidates running, with five open positions, including mayor, as Charlie Clark will not seek a third term, allowing residents to choose leaders who reflect their values, priorities, and vision for Saskatoon’s future.
The city’s top post candidates are former mayor Don Atchison, outgoing Ward 6 Councillor Cynthia Block, Mike Harder, Cary Tarasoff and ex-MLA Gordon Wyant. The City Council will also have four new members after Hillary Gough (Ward 2), David Kirton (Ward 3), Marin Loewen (Ward 7), and Serina Gersher (Ward 8) chose not to run for re-election.
Bryant encouraged residents to learn about each candidate, read their profiles and platforms, and know where they stand on issues affecting every city resident's life. She added each voter’s choice will have a lasting impact on the direction of Saskatoon.
“Make sure you know what the candidates stand for and how they plan to address the issues most matter to you. Your vote is more than just a right; it’s a responsibility. As citizens, we have the power to shape the future of our city, and it’s up to us to use it,” said Bryant.
“The power of your vote goes beyond just your interests. Voting is about creating a community that works for everyone—ensuring that all voices are heard and all perspectives are considered.”
