The Melfort New Democrats have finalized their candidate for an upcoming by-election.

Lorne Schroeder, an organic beef farmer from LeRoy won the majority of votes at a nomination meeting held on Monday.

Schroeder defeated Betty Nippi-Albright in the vote, which saw 29 ballots cast.

An active member of the community, Schroeder has served as Reeve for the Rural Municipality of LeRoy, as well as the LeRoy School Board, LeRoy Credit Union, LeRoy Ball Club, Curling Club, and Kinsmen Club.

He currently serves on the Farmer Direct Co-op board.

NDP leadership candidates Ryan Meili and Trent Wotherspoon also attended the nomination meeting, speaking for a brief period of time.

The Melfort by-election will take place at a later date.