When can I start my campaign?
A candidate’s campaign period begins on the day they file their nomination and ends on Thursday, January 21, 2021. A candidate who has a deficit in their campaign, may continue to receive contributions until January 21, 2021 to obtain additional contributions in order to eliminate the deficit.
What are the rules for campaign signs and advertising?
Candidate campaign advertising means an advertisement in any broadcast, print, electronic or other medium that has the purpose of promoting or supporting the election of a candidate, and is subject to regulations established by the Ward 2 By-election 2020 Procedures and the Town’s Sign By-law 2011-23, as amended. Examples include lawn signs, brochures, posters and print, radio and electronic advertisements. Candidates are encouraged to review the Sign By-law 2011-23, as amended.
Can candidates use signs from past election campaigns?
Yes, you may use signs left over from a previous regular election campaign for the Ward 2 By-election 2020; however, it is considered to be a contribution that you make to your election campaign. You must record the current market value (i.e. what it would cost you to buy those signs today) as an expense. Signs are only permitted to be erected after Nomination Day (October 23, 2020).
Can I use the Town logo or photos from a Town website or social media site on my campaign materials?
No, candidates may not use the Town’s logo or other corporate images (including Town-owned photos) on their own websites (including social media), campaign literature, lawn signs, buttons, clothing or other campaign material.
Candidates MAY re-tweet/share a Town social media post or share a link from Town of BWG websites on their own websites including social media. Candidates wishing to share information/pages from the Town's official websites must do so by providing links rather than screen captures.
The Use of Municipal Resources for Election Purposes Policy establishes rules and procedures which prohibit the use of municipal resources during the election campaign period. Candidates should review the Use of Municipal Resources for Election Purposes Policy for more information.
Can I campaign at public events?
You may NOT campaign at events that are hosted by the Town. These include the annual events highlighted at the top of the Town's Events webpage, as well as any other events such as public information sessions or open houses. Wearing a campaign T-shirt, hat, button or other apparel is considered campaigning.
You may campaign at private events held on private property. Additionally, a private organization or candidate may rent a Town space (such as a community centre when available) for a campaign or other event and permit campaigning if they choose, so long as all campaigning activity and signage is limited to the interior space. All public health instructions and guidelines related to COVID health and safety, including physical distancing and masks must be followed.
Can I have a campaign office?
You may set up a campaign office on private property. An Election Sign may be placed, erected or displayed at a Campaign Office provided that:
(a) the Candidate has filed their nomination or in the case of a Registered Third Party, registered with the Clerk, Chief Electoral Officer or the returning officer of the electoral district, as applicable; and
(b) the Election Sign at the Campaign Office may be larger than 16 square feet, provided they otherwise comply with the provisions within the Town’s Sign By-law, as applicable.
