If you’re interested in getting more involved in local politics, there is a vacant seat around the Brighton council table – and council wants to hear from you starting in the new year.
On Christmas Eve, council met for a quick special meeting to approve the application process and policy to appoint a new councillor, following its earlier declaration of a vacancy.
As previously reported, the seat was declared vacant after the passing of former Coun. Byron Faretis on Nov. 19, 2024.
Earlier in December, a majority of council decided on filling the seat by appointment and putting out a call for applications versus pursuing a byelection for the remainder of the 2022-26 term.
With council approvals, as of Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2024, individuals interested in the gig can learn more about the appointment application process via the dedicated elections section on the municipality’s website.
And as of Jan. 2, at 9 a.m., the application period will officially open, with in-person applications available for pickup at the 35 Alice St. Municipal Centre in Brighton. The application period will continue until Jan. 17 at 2 p.m.
Municipal staff have noted that completed applications need to be filed in-person with the clerk’s department between these dates.
Jan. 18 (until 4:30 p.m.) will mark the last day to withdraw any applications. Then, a special council meeting for candidate presentations is set for Jan. 24 starting at 9:30 a.m.
According to staff, council may or not make a decision at this meeting. Depending on how that meeting goes, another special meeting is set for Jan. 27 for decisions if needed.
The municipality anticipates the new councillor will be appointed and take their oath of office at the Feb. 3 meeting, which starts at 6:30 p.m.
As previously reported, in accordance with the Municipal Act, council must fill the seat on or before Feb. 7, 2025.
To be eligible to apply, the municipality has noted candidates must be a Canadian citizen, 18 years of age or older, a resident of the municipality, and/or the owner or tenant of land here, or the spouse of a such a person, and not be prohibited from voting per the Municipal Elections Act or otherwise by law.
Residents looking for more information can reach to out to the clerk’s department.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
