How many names should be needed for nomination papers?

NEWS/ CITY HALL — How many people should be needed to sign the nominations of candidates in this year’s Kamloops civic election?

Usually, it’s just two, and that’s what administration is recommending be the number this year. It’s part of a report going to Tuesday’s council meeting on procedures for November’s election.

Some people suggest two names isn’t enough, other’s say it should be as easy as possible to get your name on the ballot. If it wants, council can increase the number of nominators to either 10 or 25 in its election procedures bylaw.

Corporate services director David Duckworth says in the report that discussions with other municipalities indicate increasing the number of nominators “does not deter candidates who may not be serious about running for office; however, it does significantly increase staff’s workload verifying the nominators.”

However, the report recommends that candidates be required to pay a $100 deposit. The proposed bylaw includes two additional advance polling dates at Heritage House on Lorne Street plus mobile polls at care homes.

The option of an additional voting station that would be open at Sahali Centre Mall from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. is included.

Cost of the election is estimated at $127,000. For the first time, those elected will serve four-year terms.