Several citizens have asked me what remedies are available to have my name re-entered on the electoral list for the current election.
Demand letter
One could be sent as early as today, but its practical effect in this context is very limited, if not useless.
Judicial review (judicial control)
This is the appropriate remedy, but the timelines are generally several months, and there is no guarantee that the court would find the situation sufficient to annul the election for the seat I was seeking.
Estimated costs
According to the lawyers consulted, one should expect about $35,000 in legal fees, plus taxes, for a judicial review and, if necessary, an application to annul the election. Comparable costs would likely be incurred by the municipality about $35,000 —therefore borne by taxpayers—in addition to the time of municipal staff.
Public-interest considerations
My intention was to serve without pay as a municipal councillor in North Hatley. However, spending $35,000 on a legal battle, while the municipality is represented by lawyers paid from public funds and administrative resources are mobilized, seems irresponsible to me. In the end, everyone would pay: I would cover my own expenses, and citizens would cover those of the municipality.
Conclusion — my decision
For these reasons, I will not initiate judicial review or an election-annulment proceeding. I refuse to increase the public bill for an uncertain outcome.
In a case like mine, the mechanisms provided by law offer few quick solutions for citizens. I acknowledge the excellent work of the municipality’s administrative staff. For my part, I have upheld compliance with the regulations and transparency, at the cost of withdrawing my candidacy.
