Wednesday, July 17, 2024

Changes to Electoral Boundaries in Courtenay-Alberni: What You Need to Know

Electoral boundaries are reviewed every ten years to reflect population shifts and ensure equitable representation. The Federal Electoral Boundaries Commission oversees this process to maintain the principle of "one person, one vote." Recently, significant changes have been made to the Courtenay-Alberni Electoral District Association (EDA) boundaries.

Courtenay-Alberni EDA Overview

Located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, the Courtenay-Alberni EDA includes Courtenay, Port Alberni, Parksville, Qualicum Beach, and smaller communities such as Cumberland, Bowser, and Tofino. This diverse district encompasses coastal areas, forests, and mountains.

Key Changes to the Boundaries

  1. Expansion:
    • Lantzville: This community has been added from the neighbouring Nanaimo-Ladysmith district.
    • North Nanaimo: Portions of North Nanaimo, around Woodgrove and Dover, are now part of Courtenay-Alberni​.
  2. Exclusions:
    • East of Courtenay River: The new boundaries exclude areas of Courtenay lying east of the Courtenay River and along Ryan Rd. This area is now part of the North Island-Powell River district to better balance the district's population​.
  3. Population Redistribution:
    • Adjustments ensure each district has a similar number of residents, addressing growth in areas like Cumberland and population shifts in regions such as Port Alberni.
  4. Community Cohesion:
    • Boundaries are realigned to keep communities with shared interests within the same electoral district, ensuring better representation of local needs.

Map of key electoral boundary changes in Courtenay-Alberni

Map of key electoral boundary changes in Courtenay-Alberni

 

For more information and to verify your electoral district check out the Electoral Boundaries Commission website: https://redecoupage-redistribution-2022.ca

Take Action