FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - Voter turnout is off to a strong start in Fort St. John ahead of Saturday’s municipal election.
According to figures released by the city, 2,213 ballots have been cast through advance and special voting opportunities for the 2026 general local election, compared with 1,161 in 2022.
That represents an increase of more than 1,000 ballots. As of Thursday, that works out to the equivalent of about 13 per cent of eligible voters.
Fort St. John voters will elect one mayor, six city councillors and three School District 60 trustees.
Residents will also have their say on one of the city’s largest proposed infrastructure projects.
The ballot includes a referendum asking voters whether the city should be authorized to borrow up to $90 million, for a term of up to 30 years, to build a proposed new aquatic facility and indoor fieldhouse.
More than 50 per cent of valid votes cast must support the referendum for the question to pass. If it does, the incoming council will consider adopting the borrowing bylaw.
The city says the proposed facility would replace the aging North Peace Leisure Pool. Construction could begin in the spring of 2027 if the referendum passes and the borrowing bylaw is adopted.
General voting takes place Saturday, Oct. 17 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Fort St. John Legion at 10103 105 Avenue.