Gatineau to hold Mayoral by-election on June 9

Tashi Farmilo

The city of Gatineau has announced that a mayoral by-election will take place on Sunday, June 9, following the recent resignation of Mayor France Bélisle. Gatineau, Quebec's third-largest city, is now gearing up for this unexpected electoral event.

The application submission period for candidates wishing to run in the by-election will be open from April 26 to May 10. Advance voting has been scheduled for June 2, providing residents an opportunity to cast their ballots ahead of the official polling day.

The cost of holding the by-election is estimated to be around $2 million, a significant expense for the city. In the interim, Councillor Daniel Champagne has stepped in as the acting mayor, ensuring the continuity of municipal governance. Among those possibly in the running are Olive Kamanyana, Audrey Bureau, and Sylvie Goneau.

This by-election is a critical event for Gatineau, as the elected mayor will serve until the next municipal elections, which are scheduled for November 2025. The city is calling on its residents to get involved in the electoral process, with numerous positions available for those interested in working at the advance voting and polling day offices. The city is looking to recruit approximately 1,500 to 2,000 people for these roles.

Information on available positions and how to apply will be made available on the city's website in the coming weeks. This election presents an opportunity for the citizens of Gatineau to actively participate in their democracy and make their voices heard.

For more information, residents can contact the city via email at election@gatineau.ca. Further details will be released as the election date approaches.

Photo caption: Olive Kamanyana has entered the race for the mayoral election in Gatineau, which is set for Sunday, June 9, following the resignation of Mayor France Bélisle.

Photo credit: Screenshot of the Gatineau municipal council meeting