Sylvan Lake residents will head to the polls on November 2, 2026, to fill a vacant council seat left by the resignation of long-time Councillor Jas Payne. Town council confirmed the by-election date during its September 8 meeting, following Payne’s departure on September 3 after 13 years of service.
Payne served four consecutive terms on Sylvan Lake Town Council before stepping down. With his resignation, council now operates with six members, one short of its full complement of a mayor and six councillors. Under Alberta law, a by-election must be held within 120 days of a vacancy to ensure continuous representation for residents.
Mayor Megan Hanson publicly thanked Payne for his dedication. “Having had the privilege of serving alongside him for the past 13 years, I have developed tremendous respect for him, his leadership, and his unwavering heart for our community,” Hanson said.
The winning candidate will serve the remainder of Payne’s four-year term, which began after the October 2025 municipal election. Council decisions directly affect town budgets, road projects, and local services, making the by-election an important opportunity for residents to shape Sylvan Lake’s direction.
Further details on candidate nominations and voting locations will be released by the Town of Sylvan Lake as the November 2 date approaches.
