Chaffey Ward paired with Huntsville Ward for next election
Huntsville Council approved the pairing of Huntsville and Chaffey Ward, in the August 9, 2024, meeting.
According to the agenda, “The population of Chaffey Ward continues to grow well beyond that of the other five (5) wards within the Town of Huntsville and does not adequately reflect equal representation by population.”
It adds that the goal is to maintain six wards “and address the inequity with minimal cost while increasing the benefit to the community.”
It continues that staff have been directed to create a new By-law to reflect the composition change to Council, as follows:
- Mayor
- Town and District Councillors – Three
- Huntsville and Chaffey Ward Councillor – Two
- Stisted, Stephenson and Port Sydney Ward Councillor - Two
- Brunel Ward Councillor – One
The agenda also indicates that Council will have the opportunity to view the new By-law for consideration of the 2026 municipal election after public notices are issued.
Staff have also been directed to present the new Ward Boundary and the above structure to upcoming Term of Council for further deliberation as needed.
Staff advised that the new composition will “address the inequity of Council representation… It’s hard to manage under one representation. Two representatives is the best option.”
They added that the representation will be similar to Parry, Stisted, and Port Sydney wards, and “would take effect in the 2026 election.”
They continued that they will hold a public meeting before passing the new By-law.
Mayor, Nancy Alcock, expressed agreement with the recommendation, including the option for the next Council to conduct a broader study if they want to.
Councillor, Cory Clarke, concurred with the recommendation and the issue resulting from Chaffey outgrowing other wards. He said, “It’s the simplest way and cost-effective way to make the change.”
Clarke added, “It would create 55% elector vote.”
He continued that if they conducted a boundary review it “would delay the proposed changes for the next election.”
