Candidate Filing Package Now Available
The Township of Muskoka Lakes is pleased to share that the 2026 Municipal Election Candidate Filing Package is now available for candidates interested in running for Council.
Serving on Council is an opportunity to represent your community, help guide local decisions, and contribute to the future of Muskoka Lakes. If you’re considering running in the 2026 Municipal Election, review: Candidate Information, Eligibility & Nominations and Candidate Forms & Resources.
The next term of Council will be active from November 15, 2026 to November 14, 2030.
Nominations
Nominations open on Friday, May 1, 2026 and close on Friday, August 21, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Nomination papers must be filed in person with the Clerk’s Office by appointment. Nominations will not be accepted after the deadline.
Candidates are required to submit a completed nomination package, collect 25 endorsement signatures, and pay the applicable nomination fee: $100 for Councillor or $200 for Head of Council.
The Candidate Filing Package includes the nomination form, endorsement forms, declarations, financial forms, filing requirements, candidate guides, and other important election resources. Full printed packages are also available at the Township Office (1 Bailey St., Port Carling) and will be reviewed during the filing appointment with the Township Clerk.
To book a filing appointment or inquire about the nomination process, contact the Clerk at 705-765-3156 or email clerks@muskokalakes.ca
Candidate Resources
- View the Candidate Filing Package
- View Candidate Information, Eligibility & Nominations
- Visit the Muskoka Lakes Election Hub
Candidate Information Session and Workshop
Thinking about running in 2026? Join us for an interactive workshop that walks you through how municipal government works, what serving on Council really involves, and the realities of campaigning and public life—so you can make an informed, confident decision.
Presenters: Colin Johnston, Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing and Clerks on Call
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!
If you are unable to attend in person, please contact the clerk for alternate options.
Stay Informed
The Muskoka Lakes Elections Hub provides current information for voters, candidates, third party advertisers, accessibility resources, ward information, and election updates.
Check the Hub regularly and subscribe for updates as more information becomes available.
We'll also be sharing news and reminders on our socials, lets stay connected:
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Facebook | Township of Muskoka Lakes
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Contact & Support
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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