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Hastings Highlands sets out election guidelines

With a municipal election on the horizon, Hastings Highlands Council has approved some policies to make sure it’s a fair one.

Earlier today, council discussed election policies that will apply to current councillors, candidates, and to staff. Although similar policies have existed in the past, it’s now mandatory to have them in place. These include that:

– Municipal staff has to be unbiased, and is not allowed to let any politics get in the way of their jobs.

– Candidates, councillors and advertisers are not allowed to ask staff any questions related to municipal operations to use in their campaigns. Furthermore, staff is not allowed to give that information out.

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– Candidates, councillors and advertisers can’t use the municipality’s crest, logo, or email accounts for campaigning or advertising.

– Between May 1st and voting day, current councillors using social media need to clearly state on their accounts whether it’s being used for council work, personal use, or campaigning.

CAO Pat Pilgrim says both staff and council will see the benefits of the new guidelines.

Pilgrim says this will also give residents a clearer understanding of the electoral process.

Deputy Clerk Suzanne Huschilt says these policies seem more in line with what other municipalities are doing. She also says these policies assure everyone there is a level playing field between current councillors and candidates vying for the role.

The municipal election will be held on October 22nd. Campaigning begins on May 1st when registration opens. Registration for the election ends on July 27th. The cost to run for Mayor will be $200, and $100 to run for council.

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