Municipal election period nearing its May 1 opening day
Posted April 21, 2026
On May 1, registration opens to anyone eligible to run for municipal or school board office across the province, for election day, October 26. Nominations close August 21.
Prior to registration, potential candidates require at least 25 signatures of eligible voters, plus pay a fee of $200 if running for Mayor, or $100 for all other positions.
A critical component prior to registration is no one is permitted to begin raising or spending money on a campaign until after registration.
Two significant changes in the 2026 election includes the elimination of deputy mayors as members of County council which will be reduced to 16 made up of the mayors, plus an appointed full-time Warden.
And in New Tecumseth, the elimination of one council seat and a seven Ward system, down from eight.
Compensation (2026)
For Mayor: Town Base Salary: $55,091.56 + benefits + annual mileage per diem $1,020
-
Can opt for a payment in lieu of benefits - approximately $8,220 annually.
-
County Base Salary: $32,784.90 + $300 per diem for attending meetings of County Council or Committee meetings + $25 per month for internet expense.
For Deputy Mayor: $38,030.76 benefits + annual mileage per diem $1,020.
• can opt for a payment in lieu of benefits - approximately $8,220 annually.
Ward Councillor: Town Base Salary: $29,588.54 + benefits + annual mileage per diem $1,020
• Can opt for a payment in lieu of benefits - approximately $8,220 annually.
Elected members also receive a laptop and cellphone, per diems for special meetings, access to conferences and training, including reimbursement for travel, and support for participation in municipal associations.
Key Dates
Nomination Day: May 1.
Nomination filing deadline: Aug. 21 @ 2 pm
Certification of nominations: Aug. 24
Third Party Advertising Registration Period: May 1 to Oct. 23
Advance Voting Period: Oct. 13 - Oct. 25
Election Day: Oct. 26
New Term of Council: Nov. 15
Inauguration: Nov. 16
Story aided by AI
