Strathcona Regional District Seeks Election Officials Ahead of 2026 Local Elections
Community members invited to support voting and ballot counting processes for October election
CAMPBELL RIVER, B.C. — The Strathcona Regional District (SRD) is calling on residents to take an active role in the democratic process by applying to serve as election officials for the 2026 General Local Elections and General School Elections.
With General Local Election Day scheduled for Saturday, October 17, 2026, the regional district has begun recruiting individuals to help administer voting and ballot-counting activities across the region. The recruitment effort comes as election preparations continue in advance of the municipal and school board elections.
The SRD is seeking candidates for several positions, including Presiding Election Officials, Alternate Presiding Election Officials, and Election Officials. Successful applicants will be assigned to voting locations where they will assist in ensuring that election procedures are carried out efficiently, fairly, and accurately.
Election officials are responsible for supporting key aspects of the voting process, including voter assistance, ballot administration, and ballot counting. Presiding Election Officials and Alternate Presiding Election Officials will also have supervisory responsibilities at designated voting stations.
According to the SRD, election workers play a critical role in maintaining public confidence in the integrity of local elections by helping ensure that voting operations are conducted in accordance with established procedures.
“It’s a great opportunity to get involved in your community, meet new people, and be part of the democratic process. Being an election official is a unique and rewarding experience, and many of our election officials enjoy it so much they return election after election,” said Edith Watson, SRD Chief Election Officer.
The regional district noted that all successful applicants will be required to attend a training session before the election and complete an oath of office prior to carrying out their duties. The training is intended to familiarize election workers with voting procedures, ballot handling requirements, and the responsibilities associated with their assigned roles.
Eligibility Requirements and Application Process
The SRD emphasized that individuals with a financial interest or any other interest in the outcome of the election will not be considered for election official positions. The requirement is intended to protect the impartiality and integrity of the election process.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to carefully review the job descriptions for each role before submitting an application. The district noted that responsibilities, qualifications, and experience requirements vary depending on the position.
Applicants should evaluate their skills and experience to determine which role best aligns with their qualifications before applying.
The recruitment campaign is part of broader preparations for the 2026 General Local Elections and General School Elections, which will determine representation for local governments and school boards throughout British Columbia.
Election Information to Be Updated Regularly
In addition to employment opportunities, the SRD is continuing to provide information for voters and prospective candidates through its election resources. Residents can access details related to running for local office, nomination procedures, key election dates, and available voting opportunities.
The regional district said its election webpage will be updated regularly as additional information becomes available in the months leading up to Election Day.
Interested individuals can review available positions and submit applications through the SRD’s online careers portal. Further information about the 2026 General Local Elections and General School Elections is also available through the district’s election information resources.
As local governments prepare for the October vote, the SRD hopes community members will consider participating in the election process not only as voters, but also as election officials helping to ensure a smooth and transparent election experience for residents across the region.