City of Vancouver
Information bulletin
June 6, 2018
Vancouver City Council has voted today to list mayoral, councillor, and Park Board commissioner
candidates in random order instead of alphabetical order on Vancouver’s municipal election ballots.
The
update to the election by-law was requested by Council to create a more
even playing
field for candidates. Research has shown many voters are more likely to
vote for those listed first on a ballot, meaning that candidates at the
top of an alphabetical list are perceived to have an advantage over
those lower down.
As this will be the first year Vancouver voters will vote with a random order ballot, Council
has approved $235,000 for strategies to prepare voters for the change.
The
confirmed randomized list of names will be circulated well ahead of the
election, supported
by additional communications to ensure voters feel informed and know
what to expect at the voting place. Voters will also be strongly
encouraged to vote in advance in anticipation of longer vote times
expected on Election Day.
As well, more staff and more voting booths will be available at voting locations wherever
possible, to offset longer vote times and ensure assistance for those who may need extra support to vote.
The
City does not have control over the list order of candidates for school
board trustees.
The school board has authority under the School Act, and the City’s
Election Office will seek direction from the board on their desired
order of names for the 2018 election ballot.
For more information, read the full report to Council:
-30-
Media Contact:
Corporate Communications
604.871.6336
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