By: Fred Groves, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
Every four years, voters in Ontario’s 444 municipalities, including seven in Essex County, as well as the City of Windsor and Pelee Island, go to the polls.
Earlier in April, those interested in placing their names on the ballot had the opportunity to learn ‘how to’ run in the Fall election on Oct. 26, 2026. Gathering at the county council chambers in Essex, participants listened as they learned about the process of becoming a candidate.
“This session will help you decide if you want to run. We want you to have a positive election ahead,” said Essex County CAO Sandra Zwiers.
The April 8 session was attended not only by those looking to become first-time candidates but also by veterans such as Tecumseh Deputy-Mayor Joe Bachetti, Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy, and Kingsville Mayor Dennis Rogers.
“What a great turnout. The county is pleased to bring this forward,” added Zwiers.
While the county hosted the event, representatives from each municipality, along with experts from the Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing and a consulting firm – Clerks on Call – handed out a candidate workbook.
Spencer Fitzpatrick, a senior advisor with the provincial government opened with some general information and shared the best way to get started if you are new to the candidate process.
“It’s important to contact the clerk in your municipality you are running within, so you know the process,” said Fitzpatrick.
There are certain eligibility rules, including that you must be a Canadian citizen, over 18 years of age, a resident, tenant or owner of property in the municipality you are running in and not disqualified by legislation.
“The clerk must be satisfied that you are eligible to run,” explained Fitzpatrick.
As part of the nomination process, candidates must pay $100 if they are running for councilor and $200 if they are running for mayor or deputy mayor. Also, the nomination form requires 25 signatures of eligible voters in that particular municipality. This applies not only to council positions but also to school board trustees.
Fitzpatrick outlined all the financial criteria, including how much a candidate can spend on their own campaign and the total amount someone can contribute to a candidate’s campaign. He emphasized the importance of keeping accurate records, including accounting.
“You are required to maintain campaign records for up to four years,” he said.
Candidates can submit their nomination papers as early as May 1 and have until August 21 to either announce or withdraw their intention to run in the October 26 election.
As part of its reflection guide for prospective municipal candidates, Clerks on Call noted that serving on Council is both a privilege and a responsibility. Taking time to reflect before running helps ensure strong leadership, healthy governance and better outcomes for the community – whether you decided to run or not.