Focus on the BIG picture.
Thursday, Jan 15, 2026
Outside the box.
Challenges in Finding Mayoral Candidates in Kyle, Saskatchewan
The Town of Kyle in Saskatchewan, Canada, is struggling to find candidates for mayor and council positions as the November municipal election approaches. Despite two rounds of applications, no candidates have stepped forward, prompting plans to appoint a deputy mayor temporarily and continue with by-elections if needed. This issue reflects challenges small communities face in finding people willing and able to serve.
As the November municipal election approaches, the Town of Kyle in Saskatchewan, Canada, is struggling to find candidates for the position of mayor and a vacant council seat.
Current Mayor George Williams is set to resign, and despite two rounds of candidate applications, no one has shown interest in the mayoral position, as reported by Chief Administrative Officer Amber Dashney.
If the mayoral post remains vacant by the election date, the council plans to appoint a deputy mayor temporarily and schedule by-elections to fill the positions.
According to Gordon Barnhart, former President of the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association, it's not common but not unusual for small communities to face challenges in finding willing candidates.
He shared his own experience of stepping in for a vacant position in the Town of Saltcoats to maintain council operations.
The Town of Kyle has a population of four hundred thirteen, whereas Saltcoats, with a population of four hundred seventy-three, faced similar issues in the past due to vacant positions, risking quorum at council meetings.
Current Mayor George Williams is set to resign, and despite two rounds of candidate applications, no one has shown interest in the mayoral position, as reported by Chief Administrative Officer Amber Dashney.
If the mayoral post remains vacant by the election date, the council plans to appoint a deputy mayor temporarily and schedule by-elections to fill the positions.
According to Gordon Barnhart, former President of the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association, it's not common but not unusual for small communities to face challenges in finding willing candidates.
He shared his own experience of stepping in for a vacant position in the Town of Saltcoats to maintain council operations.
The Town of Kyle has a population of four hundred thirteen, whereas Saltcoats, with a population of four hundred seventy-three, faced similar issues in the past due to vacant positions, risking quorum at council meetings.
