Your ballot. Your choice.

One of the questions we’re hearing while door knocking is how voting works, especially when it comes to slates (officially called elector organizations). They’re fairly new to municipal politics in our region, so here are the essentials.

Having slates on the ballot doesn’t change how you vote. Every candidate is listed individually. Sooke voters can vote for up to six councillors and one mayor, in any combination of councillors that you choose. You do not have to vote for all six councillor positions. If there are only five candidates you want to support, vote for five.

Candidates are listed alphabetically by last name. If a candidate has been endorsed by an elector organization, that organization’s name appears with their name on the ballot. For example:

• BELFORD, Susan – Sooke Together

• McHATTIE, Brian James – Sooke Together

• RITTS, Helen – Sooke Together

• SORENSEN, Steven – Sooke Together

The official Election Day voting is Saturday, October 17, at Edward Milne Community School, 8am to 8pm. However, advance voting is also available:

• Wednesday, Oct. 7, from 8am to 8pm in Council Chamber, Municipal Hall

• Saturday, Oct. 10, from 8am to 8pm at Edward Milne Community School

• Wednesday, Oct. 14, from 8am to 8pm in Council Chamber, Municipal Hall

• A special voting opportunity will also be held from 12:30 to 2:30pm, Tuesday, Oct. 13 at Ayre Manor for its residents only

If you aren’t already registered, you can register when you vote. Bring two pieces of ID to prove your Canadian citizenship and local residency, with at least one containing your signature.

Learn more through the District of Sooke elections page, or look for the Sooke Together team in your neighbourhood. We’re always happy to talk all things Sooke!