Cornwallis Reeve Byelection Delayed as Candidates Emerge

UPDATE: The byelection to replace former RM of Cornwallis reeve Sam Hofer remains uncertain, as the municipality delays the process until a new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) is hired. With Cornwallis lacking a reeve since April 7 and a full-time CAO since June 2022, local governance is in a precarious state.

Developing news indicates that former councillor Mike Waddell is “strongly considering” a run for the reeve position when the byelection is eventually called. This decision comes as residents express growing concern over the delay in filling this critical leadership role.

Acting Reeve Terry Ross, who stepped in after Hofer’s resignation due to a violation of the Municipal Act, revealed that a byelection could occur as early as November or December, contingent on the CAO hiring process. “That’s the number one priority after we get the CAO hired,” Ross stated, emphasizing the importance of restoring stable leadership in Cornwallis.

The RM has received over 100 applications for the CAO position, though a candidate previously offered the job withdrew. The search is ongoing, with the municipality utilizing a recruiting firm to find a suitable candidate. Ross describes the desired CAO as possessing a combination of municipal law knowledge and financial expertise, indicating the high stakes involved in this hiring process.

Waddell, who served on the council from 2014 to 2018, is actively engaging with current council members about his potential candidacy. He expresses confidence in the council’s approach to hiring a CAO before scheduling the byelection, stating, “If you rush them or force them, they can get messier.” He aims to bring stability and accessibility to the role if elected, promising to be responsive to taxpayers and transparent in his governance.

The Municipal Act mandates that councils conduct byelections “as soon as is reasonably possible” to fill vacancies. However, the current situation allows for flexibility depending on specific circumstances. The next municipal election is scheduled for October 28, 2026, adding urgency to the need for timely action.

In light of the ongoing challenges faced by the RM of Cornwallis, the community awaits critical updates on the CAO hiring process and the subsequent byelection timeline. The absence of a permanent reeve has left residents feeling anxious about their representation and governance.

As this situation unfolds, all eyes are on the Cornwallis council to navigate these pressing issues effectively and ensure that democratic representation is restored swiftly. Residents and potential candidates alike are hoping for a rapid resolution that will stabilize local governance and enhance community trust.