Information for Candidates

Elections New Brunswick - Local Government Election Schedule

Chief Electoral Officer for the Province of New Brunswick – Kimberly Poffenroth

• The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) ensures elections are fair, impartial, and free from political influence, as mandated by the Elections Act.
• The CEO also serves as the Supervisor of Political Financing, enforcing the Political Process Financing Act.
• In New Brunswick, the CEO also acts as the Municipal Electoral Officer, overseeing:
  • Municipal elections
  • District Education Council elections
  • Plebiscites
• As an officer of the Legislative Assembly, the CEO must remain non-partisan and is not allowed to vote in any election that they administer. The CEO can vote in federal elections. 

Eligibility requirements

To run in a local government election, a candidate must:

• Be 18 years or older on or before election day
• Be a Canadian citizen
• Have been a resident of the province and the local government or rural district for at least 6 months before election day
• If running in a ward-based election, be a resident of the ward at the time of nomination

Disqualifications

You cannot run if you are:

• A local government officer or full-time employee of the same local government
• An employee of the Department of Environment and Local Government (for rural district advisory committees)
• A judge, election officer, or someone disqualified under election laws
• A public sector employee (federal or provincial) who hasn't obtained necessary approval from their employer

It is the responsibility of a candidate to consult with their employer to determine if they must seek approval to become a candidate.

Nomination process

Nomination papers (Form M 04 001) must be completed and submitted to the Municipal Returning Officer, not your local government office.

Deadline: 2 p.m. on the nomination closing date (varies by election type).

Papers must include:

• Candidate’s name, civic address, occupation
• Certification of eligibility
• Consent signed and witnessed
  Note: A candidate cannot be their own witness. They are allowed to be the witness on the section of the nomination paper with the nominators.
• At least 10 nominators who are qualified electors in the area (and ward, if applicable)
• A declaration from the person who collected the signatures
• Each person who collects the signatures of nominators for the candidate must fill out their own separate declaration (Part F) of the papers

Tip: Collect a few extra signatures in case some nominators are found ineligible.

>> Download nomination paper

After nomination

• You may withdraw your candidacy by submitting a signed statement with two witnesses (qualified voters) no later than 5 p.m. on the third day after nomination day.
• If a candidate dies before polls close, the election for that office will be postponed and rescheduled.

List of Electors

Once nomination papers have been accepted, a candidate may request a copy of the List of Electors for their contest from the Municipal Returning Officer. 

The candidate will need to identify a list agent (who may be the candidate) to whom an account will be provided to download the information from Elections NB’s candidate portal system. Candidates must ensure that the list will only be used by themselves or persons acting on their behalf for legitimate campaign purposes during the current election.

Additional resources

Visit Elections NB for forms, guides, and contact details.

You can also call 1-888-858-VOTE (8683) for assistance. 

Composition

The City of Moncton has a council made up of 11 elected officials, which includes:

• The Mayor – One (1) is elected by all electors in the city
• Deputy Mayor – A councillor is elected at the first council meeting following a municipal election. Thereafter, the position is reaffirmed annually at the regular meeting held closest to the anniversary date of the preceding municipal election.
• Councillor at Large – Two (2) positions – elected by all electors in the city
• Councillor Ward 1 – Two (2) positions – elected by all electors within their ward
• Councillor Ward 2 – Two (2) positions – elected by all electors within their ward
• Councillor Ward 3– Two (2) positions – elected by all electors within their ward
• Councillor Ward 4 – Two (2) positions – elected by all electors within their ward

These officials are elected during municipal elections and are responsible for making decisions on local governance, by-laws, budgeting, and City of Moncton services.

Ward information

The geographical information for each ward can be found on the City of Moncton ward map.

Meeting information/commitment  

Candidates should make themselves aware of the obligations to holding office and must be available at all times (day and night) to attend various City meetings, Council meetings, and functions.

Council meeting schedule

Council meetings are generally held on Mondays; however, exceptions may occur in cases of emergency.

The meeting schedule is as follows:

Regular Public Council Sessions 

Held on the first and third Mondays of each month at 4 p.m., with an average duration of three hours. 
Exceptions: In  January, March, July, and August, sessions are held only on the third Monday.

Private (In-Camera) Council Sessions 

Held on the second Monday of each month at 1 p.m., typically lasting two hours. Only items under section 68 of the Local Governance Act are to be heard at these sessions. 

Committee of the Whole Meetings

Held on the fourth Monday of each month at 1 p.m., with an average duration of two hours.

Holiday adjustments 

If a scheduled Monday meeting falls on a holiday, it will be held on the following Tuesday at the same time.

Budget sessions 

Typically scheduled during the second week of November, from Tuesday to Thursday. Please note that this schedule may vary.

Commitment to committees

City councillors typically serve on four to five committees. Each committee meets on average once a month, with sessions lasting one to two hours. Additionally, councillors are expected to report on their committee activities approximately twice a year. This commitment is integral to fostering transparent governance and effective municipal operations.

Council member appearances

Council members play a key role in community engagement through participation in various events such as community-hosted activities, conferences, dignitary receptions, and staff appreciation events, including retirements and long service awards. 

Some appearances require bringing official greetings from the City, while others necessitate attendance to show support and representation. In 2024, there were over 400 requests for Council appearances, underscoring the importance of presence and connection with the community.

Constituency work

Constituency work for a councillor in the City of Moncton involves maintaining steady and reliable engagement in municipal governance and community representation. Councillors focus on the needs and interests of their constituents, actively participate in Council meetings and committees, and contribute to informed decisions that guide the city’s development and services. 

While councillors do not take part in administrative or operational affairs, they ensure that policies, actions, and communications align with Council’s strategic goals and serve the best interests of the community.

Councillors typically spend between 10 and 30 hours per week on constituency work. The time commitment is variable: council sessions often run three to six hours, and when combined with committee work, email and CRF reviews, and community events, a weekly workload of 18 to 30 hours is common. 

Maintaining a flexible schedule, disciplined calendar, responsiveness, and a consistent presence in the community are key factors in achieving success as a councillor. 

Municipal elected officials in New Brunswick play a vital role in shaping their communities, but their power lies in collective decision-making and strategic leadership, not in directing operations or acting independently. Understanding the scope and limits of their authority helps ensure effective, respectful, and transparent local governance. 

The Mayor of Moncton serves as the primary representative of the City of Moncton. This role involves several key responsibilities:

• Leadership: Guides the City Council and provides strategic direction for municipal governance.
• Policy implementation: Works with Council members to implement policy decisions and municipal by-laws.
• Public representation: Acts as the face of the City in local, regional, and international affairs, representing Moncton at various events and initiatives.
• Council meetings: Presides over Council meetings, facilitating discussions and decision-making processes.
• Community engagement: Engages with community members, stakeholders, and organizations to address local issues and promote civic initiatives. 

Daily workload

The Mayor typically spends approximately three to five hours daily:

• In office: Reviewing municipal reports, coordinating with city staff, and strategizing policy initiatives.
• Meetings: Attending and participating in meetings to discuss and resolve municipal matters.
• Public appearances: Representing the City Council at public events, media engagements, and official functions. 

Council members are paid a salary set by their local government.

City of Moncton Compensation as of 2025

• Mayor – $101,323.62
• Deputy Mayor – $44,279.45
• Councillors – $40,529.45

The formula for calculating yearly salary increases to members of Council can be found within By-law A-202. 

Municipal campaign contribution  

There are no rules requiring local government candidates to keep track of contribution or expenditures related to their campaign expenditures related to their campaign. Candidates are not required to file financial return at the conclusion of their election.  

Election advertising rules summary

General guidelines

• Candidates may begin advertising at any time, even before an election is officially called.
• All printed election materials (e.g., signs, posters, handbills) must include the name and address of the printer and publisher. Failing to do so is an offence.

Advertising restrictions

From 12:01 a.m. on the Sunday before Election Day until 8 p.m. on Election Day, the following are prohibited:

• Election speeches or entertainment on radio or TV
• Election ads in newspapers
• Election content transmitted via computers

Sponsored or boosted social media ads are also prohibited during the restricted advertising period.

Permitted during this period:

• Existing websites may remain active
• New signs may be placed
• Canada Post may continue delivering flyers

Election Day specific rules

• No advertising signs may be placed on moving motor vehicles. Wrapped vehicles must remain parked.
• On Election Day and Advance Voting Days, no campaign material (including signs, clothing, or other items) may be carried, worn, or placed within 30 metres (100 feet) of a polling station entrance.

Location restrictions

Advertising signs are not permitted:

• Within the right-of-way of highways
• Where they pose safety concerns
• On utility poles, as requested by Bell Aliant and NB Power

Local government by-laws may further restrict where and when signs can be placed.

See Elections New Brunswick – Rules for Financing and Advertising in Local Government

Local Governance Act

Power of local Government – Section 6 Local Governance Act  

• 6(3) The powers of a local government are vested in and shall be exercised by its council.
• 6(4) Anything begun by one council may be continued or completed by a succeeding council.  

General Duties of Councillors – Section 48(6)

• consider the welfare and interest of the entire local government when making decisions,
• bring to the attention of council matter that may promote the welfare or interest of the local government
• participate in developing and evaluating the policies and programs of the local government
• participate in meetings of council, council committees and any other body to which he or she is appointed by council and
• perform any other duties conferred upon him or her by this or any other Act or by Council.

General Duties of the Mayor – Section 48(1)

• preside at all meetings of council, except as provided for otherwise in a procedural by-law made under paragraph 10(2)(a) or a municipal charter or private or special Act
• provide leadership to council
• communicate information and recommend actions to council for the improvement of the municipality’s finances, administration and government
• speak on issues of concern to the local government on behalf of council

Despite subsection (1) the mayor of a local government is subject to the direction and control of council and shall abide by the decisions of council.

Swearing In (Section 58 and 176.3)

A person elected to an office on a council or to a rural district advisory committee shall accept the office by:

• taking and subscribing the oath of office prescribed by regulation in the Forms Regulation – Local Governance Act; or
• making and subscribing the affirmation of office prescribed by regulation in the Forms Regulation – Local Governance Act.

A person so elected shall not take the oath or make the affirmation until the person has been declared elected. In the event that a recount has been requested, no oath or affirmation may be taken or made until the expiration of the period referred to in subsection 41.1(1) of the Municipal Elections Act and, if applicable, the expiration of the period referred to in subsection 42(1) of that Act.

A person elected to an office on a council or to a rural district advisory committee by acclamation in a by-election shall take the oath or make the affirmation without delay.

No person shall take a seat on a council or a rural district advisory committee before they have accepted office by taking the oath or making the affirmation required under the Local Governance Act.

Proposed date for the swearing ceremony for the newly elected 2026-2030 Council is scheduled for June 1, 2026.

Closed meetings – Section 68 (1)

A council meeting or a committee of council meeting may be closed to the public for the duration of the discussion if it is necessary to discuss:  

• information of which the confidentiality is protected by law,  
• personal information as defined in the Right to Information and Protection of Privacy Act,  
• information that could cause financial loss or gain to a person or the local government or could jeopardize negotiations leading to an agreement or contract,  
• the proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land,  
• information that could violate the confidentiality of information obtained from the Government of Canada or from the government of a province or territory,
• information concerning legal opinions or advice provided to the local government by its solicitor or privileged communications between solicitor and client in a matter of local government business,  
• litigation or potential litigation affecting the local government or any corporation referred to in sub‐ section 8(1), the local government’s agencies, boards  
• the access to or security of buildings and other structures occupied or used by the local government or access to or security of systems of the local government, including computer or communication systems,
• information gathered by the police, including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, in the course of investigating any illegal activity or suspected illegal activity, or the source of that information,
• labour and employment matters, including the negotiation of collective agreements.

Overview

Municipal elected officials in New Brunswick are elected representatives who serve the residents of their municipality by:

• setting policy
• making decisions on behalf of the entire community
• providing leadership and oversight

Their authority and responsibilities are defined under the Local Governance Act, municipal by-laws, and relevant provincial legislation.  

What elected officials have the authority to do

Municipal elected officials, as members of council, collectively:

1. Set policy and direction

• Approve by-laws, policies, and resolutions that govern the municipality.
• Make decisions on community priorities, strategic planning, and service delivery.
• Establish vision and goals through budgetary and planning processes.

2. Approve budgets and financial decisions

• Approve the annual operating and capital budgets.
• Set property tax rates and determine how public funds are allocated.
• Oversee financial sustainability and stewardship of municipal resources.

3. Represent the public

• Advocate on behalf of constituents and act as a link between the community and the municipality.
• Ensure community needs and feedback are considered in decision-making.

4. Provide oversight

• Monitor performance of municipal services and programs.
• Ensure accountability through regular reporting, audits, and review of operations.
• Evaluate the performance of the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO).

5. Enact and amend by-laws

• Pass, repeal, and amend municipal by-laws to regulate local matters (e.g., zoning, parking, noise, land use).

What elected officials should not do

While elected officials play a key role in governance, there are important boundaries to respect:

1. Avoid involvement in day-to-day operations

• Elected officials must not direct municipal staff or become involved in administrative functions.
• The CAO is responsible for overseeing all municipal employees and operations.

2. Cannot make individual decisions

• Elected officials have no individual authority - all decisions must be made collectively through Council meetings.
• Individual councillors cannot commit the municipality to a course of action or promise specific outcomes to constituents.

3. Do not use position for personal gain

• Elected officials must avoid conflicts of interest and cannot use their position to benefit themselves , family, or associates.
• They must declare conflicts and recuse themselves from relevant discussions or votes.

4. Do not breach confidentiality

• Elected officials must keep in-camera (private) meeting discussions and sensitive information confidential, even after leaving office.

Governance structure and key relationships

• Council as a Whole: Decision-making body; all policy, by-law, and financial decisions are made by majority vote.
• Mayor: Provides leadership to Council, chairs meetings, and acts as a spokesperson.
• CAO: Implements Council decisions and manages all municipal operations and staff.
• Staff: Provide expert advice and carry out Council-approved programs and services.

Best practices for elected officials

• Act with integrity, transparency, and accountability.
• Focus on long-term community interests over short-term political gains.
• Participate actively and respectfully in Council meetings and committees.
• Engage with the public while respecting Council processes.
• Continue professional development in municipal governance. 

By-Law A-418 – Proceedings of Council

This by-law regulates the structure and conduct of all City Council and committee meetings in Moncton. It covers essential procedural elements including:

• Meeting governance: Rules for calling, scheduling, and organizing Council and committee meetings.
• Quorum and leadership: Defines the number of members required to conduct business and roles for the Mayor or Deputy Mayor in presiding.
• Agenda structure and decision-making: Order of business, motion handling, voting procedures, and tie-breaking.
• Public participation: Guidelines for presentations, registered and unregistered speakers, and conduct during sessions.
• Conduct and decorum: Expectations for behavior, maintaining order, and addressing disruptions.

By-Law A-1218 - Code of Conduct

Municipal councillors in New Brunswick must act with integrity, respect, and accountability, avoid conflicts of interest, protect confidential information, use resources responsibly, and communicate fairly.

Purpose

• To set clear standards of behaviour for mayors and councillors.
• To ensure public trust, respectful governance, and accountability.

Key elements and highlights

Scope and purpose

• Applies to all members of Moncton City Council (mayor, councillors, at-large, ward)  
• Establishes standards of conduct appropriate to their roles and responsibilities as elected officials, aiming to uphold professionalism and public integrity.

Principles and values

• Council members must act with integrity, accountability, transparency, honesty, and good faith—always in the best interests of the City.
• Conduct is to align with municipal by-laws and policies as well as applicable provincial and federal legislation, including the Local Governance Act, RTIPPA, Elections Act, Human Rights Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, and the Criminal Code.

Commitment requirement

• Every elected official must formally declare commitment to abide by the Code, with a signed statement acknowledged by the city clerk.

Context of application

• The by-law repealed the older "Code of Ethics and Conduct" and formally came into effect in December 2018.

The Code is formalized under By-Law A-1218 - Code of Conduct for Elected Officials. It was enacted following the authority invested by the Local Governance Act.  

Following a general municipal election, orientation is one of the first formal training sessions provided to newly elected officials. Its primary purpose is to ensure that members of Council gain a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities in municipal governance and service delivery.

For the 2026–2030 Council term, the City of Moncton will host orientation sessions shortly after the election results are finalized. These sessions will span approximately three to four days and are designed to equip elected officials with the foundational knowledge and tools necessary to serve effectively throughout their term. 

Media relations

Moncton is fortunate to have a wide variety of local media, including print, private and public radio, and television in both official languages. Media have an important role to play in helping municipalities maintain transparency in decision-making and in letting the public know about everything from events to road detours to new policies and plans.

As elected officials, councillors regularly receive media calls on many different issues. Councillors are free to accept or decline interviews depending on their interest, availability, and knowledge of a given topic.

When you do choose to do an interview, you are speaking on behalf of yourself as a councillor, not on behalf of Council. The Mayor is the designated spokesperson for Moncton City Council. That means you are free to share your own thoughts and opinions on a topic, but not to present those thoughts and opinions as the direction of Council or the City as a whole.

All councillors receive media training as part of their orientation. Media training helps you better understand how journalists work and provides you with tips and strategies you can use to give the best possible interviews.  

The City of Moncton’s Communications Department is also available as a resource. Communications staff can help you prepare for an interview and provide insight on local media. All media requests, apart from those made directly to members of Council, come through the Communications Department, so staff may also reach out to you with requests submitted to them.

Social media

Social media can be a great way to connect with residents – it can also be challenging and time consuming to manage.

A few things to consider:

• You may want to create a separate channel related to your work on Council and separate from your personal accounts. If you are running for Council, you may choose to create a channel as part of your campaign and then keep it going as your new Council channel once elected. Councillors often deal with a lot of negativity online and keeping your councillor channel separate from your personal channel allows you to maintain channels for family and friends that are free of Council-related concerns.
• Decide how many channels you can reasonably maintain. Social channels need to be constantly fed if you want people to continue to engage with you, but all that posting takes time. Better to have fewer channels that are well maintained rather than many that are underwhelming.  
• Don’t be shy about setting standards for your followers. The City of Moncton has developed social media terms of use and requires those using its platforms to adhere to them. Elected officials need to be able to take criticism, but there is a difference between being critical and being abusive. Be clear about what you will and will not tolerate.