Elections - Eston - Snipe Lake

Town council elections give residents the opportunity to choose their local leaders, including the mayor and councillors, who are responsible for making decisions that affect the day-to-day life of the community. These decisions include local services, infrastructure, planning, budgeting, and overall community development.

Municipal elections in Saskatchewan are held every four years. Eligible voters must be at least 18 years of age, be Canadian citizens, and meet provincial residency requirements. Voting is conducted by secret ballot.

Anyone who meets the eligibility requirements may run for town council by submitting nomination papers during the designated nomination period. Serving on council is an important way to contribute to the community and help shape its future.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed, consider participating as a candidate, and most importantly, take part by voting. Local government plays a key role in building strong, safe, and vibrant communities.

(Section 84(b) of the Act)

Town of Eston – Election Notice & Advance Poll Information

The Town of Eston would like to inform residents about the upcoming municipal by-election and the availability of advance voting, as provided under Section 84(b) of The Local Government Election Act.

What is an Advance Poll?

An advance poll allows eligible voters to cast their ballot before Election Day if they are unable to attend on the regular voting date. This ensures all residents have a fair opportunity to participate in the election.

Advance Poll Details

Date: Wednesday, April 8, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location:
Town of Eston Office
111 4th Ave SE
Eston, Saskatchewan

Election Day (Notice of Poll)

A poll has been granted for the election of:
Councillor – 1 Position

Candidates:

Mark Mutch
Helenka Bernard

Voting Date: Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location:
Town of Eston Office
111 4th Ave SE
Eston, Saskatchewan

Declaration of Results

Election results will be declared at:
Town of Eston Office
Date: April 16, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM

Important Reminder

Voter identification is required to vote at both the advance poll and on Election Day.

Election Packet

What It Means to Be a Member of Council

What Council does

• Sets Policy and Direction – Passes bylaws and policies, establishes long-term goals, and approves municipal plans.
• Approves the Budget – Sets the annual operating and capital budgets and the municipal tax rate.
• Makes Decisions as a Group – Decisions are made by resolution at public Council meetings.
• Provides Governance Oversight – Hires and evaluates the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and ensures policies are followed.
• Represents the Community – acts in the best interest of the municipality as a whole.

What Council does not do

• Does Not Manage Staff – Councillors do not direct municipal employees. All staff report to the CAO.
• Does Not Make Decisions Individually – Authority rests with Council as a whole.
• Does Not Handle Day-to-Day Operations – Operational matters are handled by Administration.
• Cannot Override Provincial or Federal Law – Municipalities operate within provincial legislation.
• Cannot Promise Individual Outcomes – Decisions must follow policy, legislation, and budget constraints

Fact vs Fiction

Fiction: “A councillor can fix my issue directly.”
Fact: Councillors bring issues forward, but decisions are made collectively.

Fiction: “Council runs the Town office.”
Fact: Council sets direction. Administration manages operations.

Fiction: “If elected, I can make changes immediately.”
Fact: Change requires policy review, majority vote, and often budget approval.

Fiction: “Council members are involved in hiring and firing staff.”
Fact: Council hires and evaluates the CAO only. The CAO manages staff.