Photo: Hanna must hold a by-election following Coun. Paul Hunter’s Aug. 13 resignation. Council is considering Nov. 2 and Nov. 16 but has not formally selected a date. Screenshot

The Town of Hanna discussed preparations for a by-election during its Aug. 26 Committee of the Whole meeting following the resignation of Coun. Paul Hunter.

Hunter resigned from council effective Aug. 13. Under Alberta legislation, the town must hold a by-election within 120 days of the vacancy, setting a deadline of Dec. 11.

Council discussed Nov. 2 and Nov. 16 as possible election dates. A Nov. 2 vote would require nomination day to be held Oct. 5, while a Nov. 16 election would require nominations to close Oct. 19.

Council members indicated a preference for the earlier date to reduce the amount of time the seat remains vacant. Holding the vote on a Monday at the Hanna Community Centre would also provide residents with a familiar election day and voting location.

No election date was formally approved during the discussion. Council accepted the information presented by administration.

If only one candidate submits valid nomination papers by the nomination deadline, that person would be declared elected by acclamation. The successful candidate would be sworn in at the next regular council meeting.

Hunter was elected in the October 2025 municipal election with 338 votes.

His departure also leaves several council committee assignments to be addressed. Hunter chaired one committee that is not currently active and served as an alternate on several others.

The mayor and administration will review the vacant assignments and contact council members about their interest and availability. The appointments are expected to return to council for a decision at its Sept. 8 meeting.