2024 Electoral Division Boundaries Update
In preparation for the 2025 municipal election, Wheatland County has updated its electoral boundaries. The previous divisions were created in 2001, based on 2000 population numbers.
Adjusting division boundaries is necessary to account for differences in population growth throughout the County. Some areas experience more growth than others, resulting in divisions with a greater population. Re-establishing the electoral boundaries ensures that residents are equally represented among divisional councillors, which ensures fair representation for Wheatland County’s residents, and maintains the integrity and effectiveness of our local governance.
A primary factor for determining electoral boundaries is the optimum distribution of population per division. The optimum population for each division should be within a ± 25% population average, which is determined by dividing the County’s total population by the number of divisions. In addition to the optimum distribution of the population, the boundaries should be easily identifiable, and use boundaries that are logical. Where appropriate, divisions should follow rivers, highways, and major roads, and be intuitive to residents.
The electoral boundaries for Wheatland County were based on the following principles:
- Minimal change to the historical division boundaries,
- Ensuring that each division was within the ± 25% population average, and
- Account for identified growth areas that could impact each division.
Approval and Effect
In accordance with the Municipal Government Act, County Council held a public hearing on July 2, 2024 to consider updating the electoral boundaries as per Bylaw 2024-18. Council approved the divisions on September 17, 2024.
Bylaw 2024-18 comes into full force and effect on October 19, 2025, or the day before the date of the 2025 municipal election as determined by Council, whichever is earlier.