The race for local council seats officially begins May 1, as nominations open across the region.
Anyone planning to run for mayor/reeve, councillor or school board trustee can begin filing nomination papers with their municipal clerk starting Friday. The deadline to file is Aug. 21 at 2 p.m.
The 2026 municipal election will take place Oct. 26, when voters across Ontario choose their next councils and school board representatives.
To enter the race, candidates must submit the required nomination form along with a filing fee of $200 for head of council positions and $100 for all other offices. In municipalities the size of Smiths Falls and larger, council candidates must also collect at least 25 endorsement signatures from eligible voters.
Candidates must meet eligibility requirements under Ontario’s Municipal Elections Act, including being at least 18 years old, a Canadian citizen, and having a qualifying connection to the municipality, such as living, owning or renting property there.
Campaign fundraising and spending cannot begin until a nomination has been officially filed.
Municipal clerks are responsible for reviewing nominations and have until Aug. 24 to certify candidates.
The election will determine who sits around council tables for the next four years, shaping decisions on everything from roads and housing to recreation and local services.
Stay on top of the 2026 municipal elections with ongoing coverage from Hometown News—Keeping you connected to your community.
