Donald Meriam, candidate for the upcoming by-election on Jan. 21. (submitted/DonaldMeriam)

By Alyssa Rudolph

2026 byelection

‘A younger voice means long-term thinking’: city council byelection candidate

Dec 29, 2025 | 1:07 PM

The City of North Battleford has confirmed the list of candidates for its upcoming municipal byelection to fill a vacant council seat.

One of the candidates appearing on the Jan. 21 ballot is Donald Meriam.

Meriam is a 25-year-old two-spirited gay man, born and raised in North Battleford. He has spent his time over the years as a public speaker, activist, and ambassador.

Similar to last year, his priorities consist of three main areas: economic development, addressing social inequalities, and strengthening relationships with First Nations.

The candidate emphasizes the importance of having a young representative on council.

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“I know what our youth are going through. I know what needs to be done and how to do it properly. I want to give our youth spaces to speak and learn.”

“A younger voice at the council table means long-term thinking. It means that I’m not planning just for the next four years, but for the next 40 years,” he said.

If elected, being a councilor will be Meriam’s full-time commitment. He hopes to dedicate his days to meeting with residents, checking in with local businesses, and building relationships within the community.

“It’s important to me that leadership is about showing up consistently, not just when there’s a meeting,” he said.

Economic Development

Meriam hopes to take a proactive approach to crime and safety by working with RCMP, Citizens on Patrol and community safety teams to strengthen trust.

“We need a proactive approach, more presence on the street, more programs that address root causes and better communication between law enforcement and the residents of the city,” he said.

When it comes to housing concerns, he believes a push for funding is needed to provide affordability.

“We have to treat housing and homelessness as a community issue. Homelessness and housing deals very closely with the crime as well. Many of those dealing with crime don’t have homes,” he said.

Partnering with First Nations

Over the past five years, the candidate has worked closely with surrounding First Nations. He explains that these relationships help create opportunities, jobs, and cultural connections.

“I want to build a city that thrives through collaboration, initiative, and local investment. If elected, I would immediately start meeting with community groups, organizations, business owners, and residents; not just as a photo opportunity, but to actually listen,” Meriam said.

Meriam Beautification Project

The Merriam Beautification Project is a community-driven initiative dedicated to enhancing the atmosphere of North Battleford.

“Well-designed and welcoming spaces invite people to gather, support local businesses, and feel pride in their community,” the candidate said.

Some of the projects he hopes to complete are a revamping of HD McPhail Park, a new entrance sign for the city, and updated equipment for the dog park.

Other confirmed candidates include Gail Feser, Mercy George, Daniel Suberlak, and Alan Wiese.

Residents unable to vote in person can apply for a mail-in ballot until Jan. 20. For those voting in person, advance polls will be held Jan. 14 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Jan. 17 from noon to 6 p.m. Voting day polls on Jan. 21 will run from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

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alyssa.rudolph@pattisonmedia.com