Today is election day, with 21 polling stations set up across the city waiting to accept residents’ ballots from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
This year’s election is made up of four ballots, including ones for mayor, councillor, Public School Board and the Separate School Board, with residents required to pick only one of the two school board ballots.
Returning officer Cliff Skauge noted last week that with only one city ward acclamation and both school boards on the ticket, things are poised for greater public turnout than during the 2009 election, when four wards were acclaimed.
This assessment is backed up by a record turnout at advance polls, with almost 740 votes cast, though it should be noted that this year saw poll dates upped to five from the previous three.
Voter turnout, as determined by mayoral votes, was 33.2 per cent in 2009, which is down from the 2006 turnout of 45.2 per cent.
It’s great to see this kind of interest in our city. I think it’s going to do nothing but enhance our city for future years, as well as create a great turnout on Oct. 24, when everyone makes their decision as to who will move Prince Albert forward - Ward 6 incumbent Martin Ring
“It’s great to see this kind of interest in our city,” Ward 6 incumbent Martin Ring said of this year’s increase in candidates.
“I think it’s going to do nothing but enhance our city for future years, as well as create a great turnout on Oct. 24, when everyone makes their decision as to who will move Prince Albert forward.”
A map showing polling station locations is available in the city-issued Voter’s Guide, as well as online at www.citypa.ca, alongside other regulations, including new voter identification requirements.
The Daily Herald will provide live coverage of this year’s election online, at www.paherald.sk.ca, throughout Wednesday evening, with results and comments posted as they’re announced.
