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UPDATE ON MAIL-IN BALLOTS FOR 2022 MUNICIPAL ELECTION

YELLOWKNIFE, NORTHWEST TERRITORIES | OCTOBER 5, 2022

The City of Yellowknife (the City) is aware that residents have not yet received their mail-in ballots for the 2022 municipal election.  Nominations closed on September 19, 2022 and candidate eligibility and ballot information were confirmed on September 22, 2022, pursuant to the Local Authorities Election Act.  As such ballot kits were expected to begin arriving in residents’ mailboxes the first week of October.  The City will continue to monitor the progress of their arrival.

The City would like to reassure any resident that is concerned they will not have enough time to mail their ballot, that it is taking additional measures to ensure eligible voters have more options and ample time to drop off their ballot before Election Day on October 17, 2022. All ballots must be received by 7 p.m. on October 17 to be counted. The City assures residents and candidates the security of ballots and the ability for residents to cast their vote is of the utmost importance, and action is being taken to ensure proper measures are implemented.

Secure Drop-Boxes

There is currently a secure drop-box at City Hall that residents may use to drop off their ballot at any time. An additional secure drop-off ballot box will be added at the Multiplex from Tuesday, October 11, until Sunday, October 16 from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Voter Assistance Locations

Eligible voters may still attend a Voters Assistance Location on October 17 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. to cast their ballot. There are two locations, the Multiplex and the Tree of Peace Friendship Centre. The City is offering free transit and YATS all day on October 17 to ensure residents may cast their vote. If residents are concerned about their ability to get to a Voter Assistance Location, please contact the City so staff can help ensure they can cast their ballot.

Proxy Voting

Residents who know they will be unable to vote by mail-in-ballot or in person on Election Day may obtain an application authorizing another voter to vote on their behalf as a proxy voter. The process to appoint a proxy voter can be done by email. The proxy voter must meet all voter requirements. Residents must apply to the Returning Officer for a proxy form at cityclerk@yellowknife.ca.  Residents and their proxy will be required to show photo identification, such as a Drivers Licence. Questions regarding proxy voting can be directed to cityclerk@yellowknife.ca. The deadline to apply for a proxy form is 3:00 p.m. on October 12, 2022.

If a voter requires clarification on how to vote, they may call the City at 920‑5667, or visit the City’s website at www.yellowknife.ca/elections.