Elections

When elections happen

General Local Elections in BC are held every four years on the third Saturday of October. Silvermere elects a Mayor and six Councillors at each general election. Between general elections, by-elections may be called if a seat becomes vacant.

Who can vote

To vote in a Silvermere civic election, you must be:

• 18 years old or older on election day
• A Canadian citizen
• A resident of British Columbia for at least 6 months immediately before the day of registration
• A resident of Silvermere for at least 30 days, OR own property in the city for at least 30 days (non-resident property electors)
• Not disqualified by law (incarcerated or convicted of an election offence)

How to vote

Polling stations open on election day, with advance voting offered in the days leading up. The 2024 School Trustee By-Election used the Silvermere & District Community Complex (2101 6th Avenue) as the polling location, with voting from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Mail ballots are available by application for residents who can't attend in person.

Election signs (Bylaw 348)

Bylaw 348 (Election Sign) sets the rules for where campaign signs can be placed during an election period. Candidates, supporters, and property owners need to follow it to avoid sign removal or fines. Read the bylaw before printing.

Open Bylaw 348 (PDF).

Running for Council

Council seats aren’t just for career politicians. Past Silvermere candidates have included teachers, tradespeople, small-business owners, and retirees. Anyone meeting the candidate qualifications under the Local Government Act and the Silvermere Local Government Election and Assent Voting Bylaw (Bylaw 327) can run in a general election.

The Chief Election Officer publishes the official nomination period, candidate packages, and required forms ahead of each election. If you’re thinking about it, reach out early. Walking through the process with the CEO before the nomination window opens makes the paperwork far less daunting.