Candidate Information, Eligibility & Nominations
Members of council help shape local decisions that affect everyday life in our community, from services and budgets to policies and long-term planning. Ontario describes the role of a councillor as being a representative, a policy-maker, and a steward of your municipality (Source: Ontario municipal councillor’s guide).
This page is here to help you understand the basics of eligibility, nominations, and what to expect before you file.
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Key Dates |
|
|---|---|
| Candidate Information Session | Thursday, April 30 at 6:00 p.m. EST |
| Nominations Open | Friday, May 1 |
| Nominations Close | Friday, August 21 at 2:00 p.m. EST |
| Election Day | Monday, October 26 |
| Term of Council | November 15, 2026 - November 14, 2030 |
Candidate Eligibility Checklist
You are eligible if you:
- Are a Canadian citizen
- Are 18 years of age or older
- A resident of the municipality or a non-resident owner or tenant of land in the municipality or the spouse of such non-resident owner or tenant
You are not eligible if you:
- Are legally prohibited from voting
- Are disqualified by any legislation from holding municipal office
Nominations
Nominations for the next municipal election are open from May 1 to August 21 at 2:00 p.m. (EST).
To confirm nomination, candidates are required to:
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- Schedule an appointment with the Clerks department to file their nomination
- Pay a fee of $100 for a councillor or $200 for head of council
- Obtain 25 endorsement signatures prior to submission of their nomination
More Information & Resources
An informational guide, forms and additional requirements will be added to the Candidate Documents & Forms section in the coming weeks.
Helpful Resources:
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- 2026 Candidates Guide (Province of Ontario)
- Municipal Councillor’s Guide (Province of Ontario)
- Election Resources: Supporting your Run for Municipal Office in 2026 (AMO)
Information Session
Thinking about running in 2026? Join us for an engaging information session on: “What is a Councillor?”
Open to all, this session will explore the role and responsibilities of councillors in municipal government and how your local leadership can make a meaningful difference in the community.
Details
Date: Thursday, April 30
Time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Location: District of Muskoka Council Chambers (70 Pine St., Bracebridge)
How to prepare: Come with your questions and curiosity!
Contact & Support
Running for office can feel like a big step, especially if it is your first time. The Clerk’s office is available to help with questions about nominations, forms, deadlines, and the election process.
For more information about municipal elections at the Township of Muskoka Lakes including historical election data, please contact:
Crystal Best-Sararas, Director of Legislative Services/Clerk
Telephone: 705 765-3156 Ext. 211
Fax: 705-765-6755
Email the Clerk
Cheryl Hollows, Manager of Legislative Services/Deputy Clerk
Telephone: 705 765-3156 Ext. 212
Fax: 705-765-6755
Email the Deputy Clerk
Contact Us
Township of Muskoka Lakes
1 Bailey St., P.O. Box 129,
Port Carling, ON, P0B 1J0
T: 705-765-3156 F: 705-765-6755
Office Hours: 8:15 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
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