How to Participate in Local Government

Public Service Announcement
How to Participate in Local Government
August 27, 2025 – Iqaluit, Nunavut

The City of Iqaluit would like to inform residents about the many ways they can participate in local government and help shape decisions that affect our community.

One of the most important ways to be involved is by voting in municipal elections. To vote in Iqaluit municipal elections, residents must be Canadian citizens, at least 18 years old on Election Day, and have lived in Nunavut for at least one year. Voters must also live in Iqaluit. Elections are held every four years, and residents can register at the polling station on Election Day by providing proper identification.

Residents are also encouraged to attend City Council meetings. These meetings are open to the public and provide a chance to hear about the decisions being made. If you want to speak directly to Council about a topic or concern, you must ask to be added to the meeting agenda as a delegation. To do this, you need to contact the City Clerk’s office at least two weeks before the meeting. This allows time for your request to be reviewed and the agenda to be updated and approved.

Another way to participate is by joining a municipal committee or board. Several City committees welcome public members, also called "Members at Large." These committees focus on areas like recreation, taxi regulations, and development appeals. Participating in a committee is a meaningful way for residents to share their knowledge and help shape policies and programs.

Residents can also use petitions to express their views or propose changes to City bylaws. There are two kinds of petitions: formal and informal. A formal petition that meets strict rules can lead to a binding vote called a plebiscite. However, this process requires support from at least 20 percent of eligible voters in the community. Informal petitions, such as those shared online, can help raise awareness and show public interest, but they do not have legal power and do not require Council to take action.

Residents are encouraged to participate early in the lawmaking process. Most bylaws must go through three readings at Council before becoming law. The first reading is procedural with no discussion, the second reading allows for review and debate, and the third reading is the final step before adoption. The second reading is often the most important stage for public input. Sharing your views at this point can help shape the outcome before decisions are finalized. In some cases, if a councillor steps down before their term is complete, City Council may appoint a new member instead of holding a by-election. This approach helps maintain continuity and avoid delays or additional costs. While this means not every councillor may be elected directly, the process ensures that Council remains able to serve the community effectively.

Participating in local government helps ensure that decisions reflect the needs and values of our community. The City of Iqaluit encourages all residents to stay informed and get involved.

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For additional information, please contact:

Geoff Byrne
Manager of Communications and Customer Service
City of Iqaluit 867-979-5619 | G.Byrne@iqaluit.ca