Albertans cast ballots in municipal election

Monday was the big day. Voters across Alberta headed to the polls to cast their ballots for who should lead their municipalities.

Monday was municipal election day all across Alberta, and voters are heading to the polls to cast their ballots.

After months of campaigning, it all came down to this.

Voters would have their final say on Lethbridge’s next mayor and its eight city councillors.

Candidates were encouraging everyone to get out and vote.

“I love that the sun is shining today like this. This really sets the tone for the future,” said Ryan Mennie, mayoral candidate.

“It’s not just for the next four years … but for our future 10, 15, 20, 25 years from now.”

Volunteers representing the various candidates were door-knocking to remind people to get out to vote.

In races like these, every vote counts.

It’s been a campaign highlighted by several key issues.

Affordability was again a chief talking point, with other topics such as transit and a third bridge also coming up often.

“I’m hearing issues such as Access-a-Ride. Transit was a big one. … You’re going to hear about affordability, taxes. You’re going to hear a bit about the third bridge, (but) not as much as you did two months ago, because the bridge is almost back to normal,” said Ryan Parker, city council candidate.

Candidates heard from voters during forums and other public events.

Many of these conversations and issues will be used to help inform both short- and long-term projects.

“It’s really looking at the fact that I am focused on the future of this city, as well as taking care of its current needs,” said Jenn Schmidt-Rempel, city council candidate.

Voters could also elect seven trustees for the Lethbridge School Division and five for the Holy Spirit School Division.