When Does a Member of Council's Term End

DOES THE COUNCIL NEED TO BE ELECTED EVERY YEAR?

Yes, the Council must be elected at each annual general meeting. Serving on a Council is an important responsibility, but it is not a permanent position. Council members are elected by the owners at each annual general meeting (AGM). We have an article describing the purpose of general meetings.

Under section 25 of the Strata Property Act, eligible voters who are present in person or by proxy at the AGM must elect a council to manage the affairs of the Strata.

WHEN DOES A COUNCIL MEMBERS TERM END?

A council member's term generally comes to an end at the AGM where a new council is elected. During the meeting, the existing council effectively steps aside, nominations are accepted, and owners vote to fill the council positions for the coming year.

The Standard Bylaws provide that a council member's term ends at the conclusion of the annual general meeting at which the new council is elected.

The Morley Hanson Model Bylaws contain similar wording and confirms that an outgoing council member may stand for re-election if they wish to continue serving.

There are also situations where a council member may choose to leave before their term expires. If a member expects to be unavailable for an extended period, such as moving away or being unable to devote the necessary time to council duties, stepping down may be the most practical option for both the individual and the community. We have an article describing what happens when a Member of Council resigns.

A council member's term can also end through a vote of the owners or other processes established under the Strata Property Act and the bylaws. These situations are less common and involve specific procedures.

DEMOCRACY REQUIRES THE POWER OF OWNERS TO ELECT THE MEMBERS OF COUNCIL

Annual council elections are an important part of strata governance. They provide owners with the opportunity to choose representatives who will act in the best interests of the community while ensuring accountability and fresh perspectives. Whether a council member continues through re-election or passes the responsibility to someone new, the annual election process helps maintain effective and democratic strata management.