Deciding who to vote for in this October’s municipal and school boards election might not be an easy decision, but the process of registering to vote, and updating your information on the voters list, has been simplified.
There are approximately 524,000 people currently registered on the voters list, but it doesn’t necessarily include everyone who may be eligible to cast a ballot. That’s why residents are encouraged to confirm they’re eligible to vote and check if they’re on the voters list as early as possible ahead of it being finalized on August 31, 2022.
“Our goal in every single election is to ensure that all eligible voters are able to cast their ballot in an easy and efficient manner, and to alleviate any concerns or confusion around how the process works,” said Marc Lemoine, City Clerk and Senior Election Official.
“Being on the voters list helps to confirm you will receive a voter's notice letting you know exactly when and where you can vote, while also helping streamline the experience at the polls.”
An easy to use online form has been developed where you can type in your name, birthdate, and address and find out instantly if you are already on the voters list. If you aren’t, or your information needs to be updated, changes can be made quickly online or by contacting 311.
To vote for Mayor and Councillor, you must be a Canadian citizen, at least 18 years old on election day, and have lived in, or owned property in the City of Winnipeg, as of April 26, 2022.
To vote for school trustee you must be a Canadian citizen, at least 18 years old on election day, an actual resident of the school division since April 26, 2022 and an actual resident in the school division ward on election day.
If you are eligible to vote but not on the voters list when it is finalized, you can still cast a ballot and are encouraged to check the election website beginning in September for a list of additional voting opportunities.
While election day is October 26, advance voting will run from October 3 – 21 and eligible voters will be able to vote at any of the advance voting locations during that time period. Voting locations be set up across the City, primarily in select malls and community centres. Confirmed locations will be added to the election website in September and all voters are encouraged to double check the website for the location nearest them.
Eligible voters can also vote by mail by requesting a sealed envelope ballot.