Residents in Owen Sound, Ontario, can now officially register to run for municipal office as the nomination period for the 2026 election opens on May 1, 2026. This period, which marks the start of the community’s election cycle, will remain open until August 21, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.
The City of Owen Sound is promoting the campaign as a chance to Lead Where You Live, an initiative supported by the Association of Municipalities of Ontario to encourage residents from all backgrounds to consider serving on council. In Ontario, municipal elections are non-partisan, meaning candidates do not run as members of a political party.
To officially enter the race, individuals must submit a nomination paper and obtain 25 original signatures from eligible voters in the city. Candidates are also required to pay a filing fee of $200 for those running for mayor, or $100 for those seeking a seat as deputy mayor or councillor. The City of Owen Sound Election Team recommends that prospective candidates book an appointment when they are ready to file their paperwork.
The upcoming election on October 26, 2026, will decide who fills the positions of mayor, deputy mayor, and seven councillor seats. The current council, which includes Mayor Ian Boddy and Deputy Mayor Scott Greig, along with seven councillors, is overseeing a city that recently adopted a long-term roadmap known as the Vision 2050 strategic plan. This plan focuses on future housing, infrastructure, and climate priorities for the community.
Residents who want to vote in the fall can verify or update their information on the official list of electors through the Register to Vote Ontario portal until August 14, 2026.
