Elections: Candidate Info

Candidate Nomination Packages

2026 Candidate Nomination Packages will be available for in-person pickup at the District of Sechelt Municipal Hall, 5797 Cowrie St., Sechelt, BC during regular business hours (9:00 am to 4:00 pm) beginning on Tuesday, August 4, 2026.

Candidate Nomination Packages will also be available by email for any Candidates who wish to view or print their own documents for completion by the Chief Election Officer. Please submit your request in writing to elections@sechelt.ca.

The Nomination Period runs between Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at 9:00 am and Friday, September 11, 2026, at 4:00 pm. During this period, nomination documents will be received by the Chief Election Officer (or designate). Although nomination documents can be submitted by email, it is strongly recommended that Candidates schedule an appointment with the Chief Election Officer to submit their package with the appropriate identification to ensure all documentation submitted has been completed correctly. Please contact the Chief Election Officer at (604) 885-1986 or elections@sechelt.ca to book your appointment.

IMPORTANT: In accordance with the Local Government Act, nomination documents WILL NOT be received after 4:00 pm on September 11, 2026. For this reason, Candidates are encouraged to submit their documents in advance of the deadline to allow adequate time for the Chief Election Officer to approve the package.

Candidate Eligibility

To run for municipal Council or School Board Trustee, Candidates must be:

A Canadian citizen; and
18 years of age or older on general voting day; and
A resident of BC for at least 6 months immediately preceding the day nomination papers are filed; and
Not be disqualified under the Local Government Act or any other enactment from being nominated for, being elected to or holding office, or be otherwise disqualified by law.

Visit the Elections BC website for complete Candidate information, including guides, forms, online training and information sessions.

Serving as a Municipal Councillor

Serving on Council is a meaningful way to help shape the future of Sechelt. It's a role that calls for thoughtful decision‑making, a good grasp of local issues and a genuine commitment to serving the public. Council Members regularly work through complex topics, balance a range of viewpoints and address sensitive topics, all with the goal of doing what is best for the community.

Serving as a School Board Trustee

Serving as a School Board Trustee is a chance to represent your community and help shape the future of local education. Trustees help set priorities and policies, oversee the budget and make decisions that support student learning and well‑being. They bring community voices to the table; make sure local needs are reflected in decisions and help ensure the School Board remains accountable to the public it serves.

Steps to Success

Explore the Elections BC website to find out “Who Does What in Local Elections” and review detailed information on new campaign financing and advertising rules. Ensure you are familiar with the Elections BC Guide to Campaign Financing for Local Candidates and Financial Agents in BC.
Visit the “Thinking of Running for Local Office?” page on the BC Ministry of Municipal Affairs website to explore helpful videos, guidance and resource documents on local government, local decision making and roles & responsibilities of local elected officials.
Review key guiding municipal plans and documents on the District of Sechelt website, under Plans, Reports and Studies.

Candidate Information Session

A Candidate Information Session will be held at 7 pm on Wednesday, September 23, 2026 in the Community Meeting Room, First Floor, District of Sechelt Municipal Hall, 5797 Cowrie St., Sechelt, BC. Candidates are encouraged to attend this session.