Alternative Approval Process

The alternative approval process (AAP) is used by local governments to seek elector approval for matters such as long-term borrowing, establishing new services, entering into partnering agreements, disposing of parkland and seeking a boundary extension. An AAP allows eligible electors to indicate that they are opposed to the proposed project or initiative. An AAP is a common process used by local governments and must follow the requirements outlined in the Community Charter

During an AAP, eligible electors have at least 30 days to sign and submit an elector response form if they are opposed to the proposed initiative. If 10 percent or more of eligible electors sign and submit response forms, the local government would be required to hold a referendum (also known as assent voting) to obtain elector approval in order to proceed. If less than 10 percent of eligible electors sign and submit response forms, a Council can choose to proceed with the initiative.  

How an Alternative Approval Process Works

  • If you support Council adopting of the bylaw, no action is required.
  • If you are an eligible resident or non-resident property elector of the City of Nanaimo and you are opposed to the adoption of the bylaw you may fill in, sign and submit an elector response form.
  • If 10% of eligible voters in the City of Nanaimo complete and submit the form, then Council must either abandon the bylaw or hold a referendum (assent voting) to obtain elector approval.
  • If less than 10% of eligible voters in the City of Nanaimo complete and submit the response form, then elector approval is received and Council can choose to proceed with the initiative. 

Find out if you are an eligible elector in the City of Nanaimo.

Supporting Documents

    Alternative Approval Process FAQs

    Contact Us

    Legislative Services Department
    455 Wallace Street, Nanaimo, British Columbia V9R 5J6
    250-755-4405
    Legislative.ServicesOffice@nanaimo.ca

    Last updated: May 21, 2025

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