GENERAL LOCAL ELECTIONS INFORMATION
The 2026 general local elections will take place this fall. The campaign period begins on September 19, 2026. October 17, 2026 is general voting day. Please visit the Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs website and your local government’s website to find out more information about participating in the election, including:
- Eligibility to vote
- How to register to vote
- Advance voting information
- Where you can vote
UFV STATEMENT ON POLITICAL ACTIVITIES
The University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) is a publicly supported organization operating in BC under the University Act. UFV must comply with restrictions legislated in the University Act; in section 66 (1) we are directed to be “non-sectarian and non-political in principle”. As such, UFV does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for public office.
We are issuing the following statement and guidelines regarding the use of University resources and facilities for political activities as we enter an election period. The purpose is to provide guidance in adhering to UFV’s principles and legal obligations regarding political support.
Statement: The University of the Fraser Valley does not participate in, directly or indirectly, or intervene in (including by means of the publishing or distributing of statements) any political campaign on behalf of or in opposition to any candidate for public office or political party.
ELECTION PERIOD GUIDELINES
Public Statements by Faculty and Staff Members Expressing Their Views
UFV recognizes that faculty and staff may participate in the election process by supporting candidates, running for office or making statements about the election. While individuals may choose to engage in these activities, it is important to ensure that these actions and statements by individuals or groups of UFV employees are not portrayed as being the actions or views of the University or its component parts (such as faculties, departments, institutes, etc.).
Use of University Resources
University resources are to be utilized for University activities in accordance with relevant policies and procedures. University resources are not to be used for political campaigns or solicitation of endorsement of, or opposition to, candidates for public office. University resources include, but are not limited to: mail distribution services, the University seal or other identifying marks, University logo, University Coat of Arms, stationery and letterhead, facsimile and duplicating machines, email accounts, telephone lines, and voicemail systems. This also includes prohibition of soliciting funds in the name of the University (or in the name of a University student organization) to be used in off-campus political intervention or participation.
Election Fundraising
Members of the University community may not use their access to UFV’s internal room booking system to reserve University facilities for the purpose of raising funds through admissions, fees, contributions, donations, or sale of materials or services to benefit a political party, campaign, or candidate.
Use of Facilities for Political Forums and Debates
A UFV department or recognized student club or association may host political forums, candidate speeches, and/or debates provided no candidate either directly or indirectly receives an endorsement, preference, or support from the University. Where a UFV department or recognized student club or association hosts political forums or debates, the following guidelines apply:
- The agenda for the forum or debate should address a wide range of issues and be of significant interest to members of the University community.
- A non-partisan individual should serve as moderator and ensure that all ground rules are followed.
- The moderator should state, at the beginning and conclusion of the program, that the views expressed by the participants are their own and not those of the University, and that hosting of the forum is not intended as an endorsement of any candidate.
- Participants should be allotted equal time in which to present their views and ideas. Selection criteria for participation must be non-partisan.
- Political forums or debates need not include every group or party, or individual seeking election. For example, forums or debates limited to mainstream parties are permissible.
- At the beginning of each political forum, candidate speech, or debate, a representative of the hosting group or organization should deliver the following disclaimer: “This event is hosted by _____________. The use of UFV facilities for this event does not constitute an endorsement by the University. UFV does not endorse or oppose any candidate or organization in connection with this or any other political campaign or election.”
Use of University Funds
Utilizing University funds to support or oppose political party activities or other partisan purposes is inconsistent with the University Act. Examples of impermissible political contributions include:
- using University funds (including student fees) to purchase promotional material, pay for campaign ads or contribute in any way to a political campaign.
- using University funds (including student fees) to pay honoraria or cover transportation, A/V services, accommodation or meal expenses, or any other costs for candidates for public office or for speakers and presenters at an event on behalf of a candidate.
- hosting a campaign rally on University property.
Election Campaign Signage on UFV Property
University property is not to be used for the placement of signs (including flyers, banners, posters, stickers, and chalking) of endorsement of, or opposition to, candidates for public office.
Questions?
Please contact Christina Forcier at christina.forcier@ufv.ca for questions about these guidelines.