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Mr. Speaker, local elections are important to community residents as they provide an opportunity to select a municipal government that reflects the wants and needs of the community. Being an elected official is one of the best ways that an individual can support their community in providing a safe, sustainable, and healthy environment for their residents.

In 2020, there were ten municipal elections in the Northwest Territories,
where 83 candidates competed for 44 available on behalf of cabinet seats.  I want to extend congratulations to all who were elected, and sincere thanks to all those who let their names stand in a race to represent and give back to their communities.

This year, there will be 21 community municipal elections held.

• Four Tłı̨cho communities- Behchokǫ, Gametì, Whatì and Wekweètì will hold elections for four chiefs and 28 councillors positions in June;
• June is also when the Charter Communities of Tsiigehtchic and Fort Good Hope will fill 11 councillor seats;
• Later, in October, these include which fall under the Cities, Towns and Villages Act, will seek to fill five mayor positions and 38 councillor seats.
  • the Town of Hay River;
  • the Town of Inuvik;
  • the Town of Norman Wells;
  • the Town of Fort Smith; and,
  • the Village of Fort Simpson.
• Finally, Mr. Speaker, in December there will be ten hamlet communities electing six mayors and 39 councillors.   These include:
  • Aklavik;
  • Enterprise;
  • Fort Liard;
  • Fort McPherson;
  • Fort Providence;
  • Fort Resolution;
  • Paulatuk;
  • Sachs Harbour;
  • Tuktoyaktuk; and
  • Ulukhaktok.

Mr. Speaker, these elections are an important opportunity where aspiring candidates in each of these communities can run for a community municipal leadership position and where residents have the opportunity to choose their municipal leadership. 

The Department of Municipal and Community Affairs continues to work with the NWT Association of Communities and community governments to promote participation in municipal politics.

Best of luck to all individuals that put their name forward as a candidate this year and to each community as they make choices on their local leadership. 

I want to thank all those who may consider putting their name forward as a candidate in the upcoming elections.  I want to acknowledge the staff and many volunteers who take on roles in the election process on behalf of the municipalities.  It takes dedication and significant effort by many people to support the election process behind the scenes.

Elections provide an opportunity for all individuals to serve as leaders and decision-makers the opportunity to shape the future for their friends, neighbours, and fellow residents. It is important that our elections are open and accessible to all.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.