With the Quebec municipal elections drawing near, here is a comprehensive guide on how, where, and when to vote.
Élections Québec had cautioned about potential delays in mail delivery due to the Canada Post contract dispute, but most voters should have received their voter information card by now. To counter this issue, municipalities like Montreal have resorted to paying for expedited deliveries through private courier services.
The voter card provides essential details such as voting dates, locations, and confirmation of registration on the electoral list. If unsure of your voter registration status, you can verify it on the Élections Québec website or by contacting your municipality.
Election day is set for Sunday, Nov. 2, with polling stations open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Additionally, advance voting is available on Sunday, Oct. 26, from noon to 8 p.m. Larger municipalities, with over 20,000 residents, allowed voting at the returning officer’s office on Oct. 24 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Some cities like Montreal have extended voting days until Oct. 29 for added convenience.
Students in Montreal may have the option to vote at their schools on specific dates. The Élections Québec website can assist in locating your municipality’s contact information if needed.
Before heading to vote, ensure your name is on the list of electors. While the voter information card is not mandatory, bringing it along can expedite the process. Valid identification, such as a Quebec driver’s license, health insurance card, Canadian passport, Indian status card, or Canadian Forces ID, is required to vote.
To find your polling station, contact your municipality’s returning officer. Municipal elections typically involve voting for a municipal councillor and mayor. In larger cities like Montreal, voters select a Mayor of Montreal, borough mayor (excluding Ville-Marie), and city councillor for their district.
City councillors represent their borough on Montreal city council and their citizens on borough council. In less populous boroughs, voters elect a mayor, city councillor, and borough councillor to meet the minimum required members for borough councils.
For more information on what to expect on your ballot in Montreal, consult the official Élections Québec website.
