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ATIKOKAN — Three people are vying to fill a vacant seat on Atikokan’s town council.
The town has confirmed that on Monday, one of the candidates — Alacia Henderson — who had filed papers for nomination, subsequently notified officials that she was withdrawing. That leaves Haylee Foy, Tyson Gareau and Sarah Lyons on the list.
Atikokan council officially declared the seat vacant at a special meeting on December 19, 2024 following the resignation of Coun. Kristi-Lynn McQuay. Councillors also directed city staff to issue an open call for candidates; council will appoint the successful candidate, whose term will run from the time of appointment to the end of the current term on November 14, 2026, according to a notice from the municipality.
Municipal clerk Sue Bates has confirmed the meeting will be held on Feb. 3 at 5:30 p.m., and will be broadcast on local cable and livestreamed.
The nomination period officially closed on Jan. 17.
A report from city staff to council four days prior said that the prospective councillors will have a chance to address, and be questioned by, councillors before they vote on the successful candidate. Bates said candidates will have four questions to answer.
The report said that the questions will be decided on by council and provided to candidates in advance of the meeting. They will each have two minutes to respond to questions.
Those vying for the spot also had to submit a statement and declaration of qualifications to town officials to be considered.
After council hears all submissions and questions the candidates, they will then vote to choose the successful candidate, according to the administration report. If no one receives a majority of votes, council will continue with multiple rounds until there is a majority.
The municipal clerk will then administer the declaration of office to the winner, once they are chosen, the report said.
