Running for Municipal Office
Becoming a municipal elected official is a significant responsibility, one that plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of local communities. These officials have the opportunity to make decisions that impact everything from infrastructure and budgeting to economic development and the delivery of essential municipal services. As the voices of their community, councillors ensure that the concerns and needs of their municipality are heard and addressed. Their decisions can directly enhance the quality of life for residents, whether through improving public services, fostering economic growth, or creating a more inclusive and equitable community.
This online resource, created through a cooperative effort between ABmunis and the Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA), offers valuable insights for those considering a run for municipal office. It covers key topics such as:
- what it means to be an elected official,
- how to navigate the process of running for office,
- and where to find the essential resources and information to help guide candidates through their campaigns.
Making a difference in your Community
In the following videos, Alberta Municipalities and RMA Board members answer questions about life on council.
- What is one thing potential candidates for council should know?
- What do you wish more Albertans knew about municipal elected officials?
- What is the best part of serving on council?
- On average, how much time do you spend on council related business?
- What does a normal council meeting day look like?
- What other council responsibilities do you have?
- How has becoming an elected official impacted your family?
- Describe the importance of working as a team on council
How do I run for municipal office?
Running for municipal office may seem intimidating, but Municipal Affairs has prepared a number of resources to help potential candidates understand the process. The 2025 Candidates Guide will provide a detailed overview of what to consider prior to seeking nomination as a candidate, the nomination process, campaign financing, and how to campaign.
For additional general information on municipal elections and election processes, we encourage you to review the extensive suite of resources developed to support municipalities and Returning Officers in conducting their respective municipal elections once available.
ABmunis and RMA have jointly created a series of FAQ documents to answer some common questions around running for municipal office. ABmunis encourages municipalities to utilize and make these documents available to potential candidates and voters.
- List of educational materials will be available in spring 2025
For specific questions related to your municipality’s nomination, campaigning, and election process, visit your municipality’s website. Some municipalities have an election webpage with an election information package and returning officer contact information. If you are unable to find this information for your municipality, use the main municipality contact number or email for any inquiries.
Webinars
ABmunis and RMA will be hosting a series of webinars for potential candidates throughout 2025. These webinars will offer insight into municipal service, day-to-day responsibilities, and the impact of joining local government.
What can I expect when I’m elected?
Alberta Municipalities and RMA’s Elected Officials Education Program (EOEP) provides an orientation course, Munis 101 The Essentials of Municipal Governance following the municipal elections, starting in September for Summer Villages and resuming in early November following the general municipal election. Visit eoep.ca to learn more.
Alberta Municipalities will host its 2025 Convention in November to provide valuable additional learning and networking opportunities for elected officials and municipal administrators alike. RMA hosts its conference in November each year.
Following the 2025 municipal election, ABmunis and RMA will release a toolkit for councillors, which focuses on themes such as:
- Roles and responsibilities on Council and administration
- Principles of good governance and ethics
- Communication best practices
- Collaboration and consensus building
- Managing public expectations
- Navigating common challenges
Where can I find more information?
If you have questions, connect with Municipal Affairs:
Phone: 780.427.2225
Toll free: 310.0000 before the phone number (in Alberta)
Email: ma.advisory [at] gov.ab.ca (ma[dot]advisory[at]gov[dot]ab[dot]ca )