Candidate Information
The first day to register as a candidate in the 2026 Ontario Municipal and School Board Election is May 1, 2026.
More information on the process to become a candidate will be provided closer to May 1st.
Learn more about being a municipal councillor
In order to become a candidate you must file a Nomination Paper with the Municipal Clerk. Nomination can only be filed during the nomination period.
- Nominations for the 2026 Municipal Election opens on Friday, May 1, 2026. Nomination paperwork must be filed with the Clerk by 2:00 p.m. on Friday, August 21, 2026.
- Candidates are required to make an appointment to file their nomination forms, as well as pay a fee of $100 ($200 for head of council).
- Candidates must provide proof of residence and citizenship.
- Eligible candidates for municipal elections must be:
- A Canadian citizen who is at least 18 years old.
- A resident of the municipality, a non-resident owner or tenant of land in the municipality, or the spouse of such non-resident owner or tenant.
- Not legally prohibited from voting and not disqualified by any legislation from holding municipal office.
Municipal Council is made up of 1 elected Reeve, 1 elected Deputy Reeve and 3 elected Councillors.
The Township of Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh, the Municipality of Bluewater, the Municipality of Central Huron, the Town of Goderich, the Township of Howick, the Municipality of Huron East, the Municipality of Morris-Turnberry, the Township of North Huron and the Municipality of South Huron are jointly hosting Election Candidate Information Sessions for residents who are considering running for municipal office.
Stay tuned for more information on the Candidate Information Sessions for Huron County.
Attend an election workshop
The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is offering free workshops for any individuals considering running for office. Whether you're a first time candidate, a current elected official, or someone looking to support a campaign, AMO has a variety of workshops that can help with your campaign. AMO is offering sessions on equipping you with the tools, resilience and confidence you need for the 2026 municipal election. They are also offering dedicated workshops for underrepresented candidates, youth and indigenous peoples.