Strong competition in the municipal election has caught the attention of Saskatoon voters.

Advanced polls in Saskatoon increased from roughly 5,600 in 2009 to 9,920 in 2012.

Joe Garcea, the head of the University of Saskatchewan’s department of political studies said competiveness among candidates has been a factor.

“This is a hotly contested election both at the mayoral level and also the councillor level,” said Garcea. “What we’re seeing is a mobilization of a vote by candidates—both the incumbents and the challengers—who really believe that nothing is guaranteed.”

Garcea predicts voter turnout will reach 30 per cent and maybe even 40 per cent, but noted 40 per cent would be a “steep climb,” from 27.3 per cent in 2009.

Joanne Sproule, Saskatoon’s returning officer said good weather contributed to the increase in advanced polls and she hopes recent snowfalls won’t have too much of an impact on voter turnout on Wednesday.

Polls are open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.