RDEK recruiting election officials for October vote

The Regional District of East Kootenay is recruiting election officials to help staff voting places during this fall’s general local election.

Applications are open until Aug. 14 for residents interested in assisting voters and helping the election run smoothly.

Election officials will greet and direct voters, answer questions about the voting process, register eligible electors, check identification, issue ballots and monitor ballot boxes and voting stations.

“These are important positions that help ensure voters have a smooth and positive experience, and we encourage anyone interested in supporting the election process to apply,” RDEK Chief Election Officer Tina Hlushak said.

According to the RDEK’s 2026 election information, presiding election officials take on an additional leadership role. They oversee voting places, support other election workers, address problems that arise and help keep operations organized.

The regional district is looking for applicants who are friendly, professional, detail-oriented and comfortable working with people in a busy public setting.

Previous election experience is not required, and the RDEK will provide full training.

“We’re encouraging community members from all backgrounds to consider applying,” Hlushak said. “You do not need to have worked in an election before to take on this role.”

Hlushak said the district is seeking dependable people who communicate well and are prepared to support voters throughout election day.

Application forms and a detailed list of qualifications are available through the RDEK’s election website. A mandatory training session for successful applicants will be held Oct. 5 in Cranbrook.

Advance voting is scheduled for Oct. 7 and Oct. 13, followed by general voting day on Oct. 17. Under provincial election rules, voting places are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on general voting day.

General local elections are held every four years and allow voters to choose representatives for municipal councils, regional district electoral areas and boards of education, according to the B.C. government.

Electors in RDEK electoral areas A, B, C, E, F and G will vote for their respective regional district directors.

The six electoral area directors elected by rural voters serve four-year terms on the RDEK’s 15-member board. The board’s other nine directors are appointed by the municipal councils they represent, according to the RDEK’s strategic plan.