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 (completed) Click here to access the presentation deck |
| 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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- Download and complete ALL forms within the Candidate Filing Package
- Obtain 25 endorsement signatures prior to submission of their nomination
- 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
Download the Candidate Filing Package Schedule an Appointment | Email the Clerk List of Candidates
Helpful Resources
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
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