March 2008 Issue

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CLICK Marks the Ballot

APEGGA 2008 Election
Goes Electronic

For the first time in APEGGA’s 88-year history, members are voting at their computer screens. APEGGA hopes the move will increase participation in elections, as well as cut printing costs and the use of paper.

Letters with unique, personalized information were mailed last month, explaining how to gather background and vote online.

As well, Council added three questions to the ballot at its Feb. 21 meeting. Members are being asked whether they approve of members-in-training being allowed to vote and run for APEGGA office, and whether they want the designations Professional Geologist and Professional Geophysicist (P.Geol. and P.Geoph.) to be replaced with the single designation Professional Geoscientist (P.Geo.).

Voting began Feb. 29 and continues until March 30 at 12 noon. By now, most eligible members should have received a letter with unique, personalized information.

If your information hasn’t arrived in the next few days, you should contact APEGGA. This information will not be sent electronically — APEGGA will mail it or members must pick it up in Edmonton.

Also, those who do not have Internet access or would rather vote via regular mail must also contact APEGGA to receive their materials.

“The default is electronic voting,” said Deputy Registrar Al Schuld, P.Eng. “We are happy to mail out traditional balloting packages to those who want them. The onus, however, is on members to contact us if they prefer to vote the traditional way.”

Executive Director & Registrar Neil Windsor, P.Eng., said the change in practice is an example of environmental leadership and efficient management of the election and voting process. “This is what members have asked for,” he said. “Electronic voting stems directly from changes in the EGGP Act and Regulations, approved by members.”