The Town of Hinton is looking for a new councillor and has set an August 27, 2026, by-election date to fill the seat left empty by the death of William (Bill) McDonald earlier this year. Residents who want to represent their community on council can now submit nomination papers, with the deadline set for before noon on July 30, 2026.
The vacancy opened in April 2026 when McDonald died at age 60 after a year-long battle with cancer. He was elected in the October 2025 general municipal election and had served only briefly before his health took a turn for the worse. McDonald was known around Hinton as the owner of Lekkerwear, a local retail store in the valley district, and as a longtime coach and organizer of youth sports including the Challenge in the Rockies hockey tournament.
The Town of Hinton confirmed that nomination forms must be handed in before noon on Nomination Day, July 30, 2026. Official candidates will be announced after noon on July 31, 2026. Voters will elect one councillor to complete the term, restoring council to its full seven elected members. Right now, the council table includes Mayor Brian LaBerge and councillors Kristen Chambers, Natalie Charlton, Gail Dunn, Donald MacLean, and Dewly Nelson.
Council decisions touch daily life in Hinton, from local services and tax rates to how the community grows and attracts employers. The town has deep roots in resource industries, and forestry remains a key part of the economy. The Mondi Hinton pulp mill, which was acquired by Mondi Group from West Fraser Timber in 2024, is in the middle of a $584 million expansion that is expected to be up and running by 2027.
Any resident interested in putting their name forward can get details and nomination papers from the town office. The by-election gives Hinton voters a direct say in who will help steer the community through the decisions ahead.
