Tecumseh, Ontario residents hoping to serve on town council or the local school board can now file their nomination papers for the October 2026 municipal election. The nomination period is open until August 21, 2026 at 2:00 pm. Appointments are required to file in person at town hall, which is located at 917 Lesperance Road.
Those interested in running must book an appointment by calling 519-735-2743. To qualify, candidates must be Canadian citizens, at least 18 years old, and either live in Tecumseh, own or rent property in the town, or be the spouse of an owner or tenant. There is a fee to file: $100 for councillor and school board trustee candidates, and $200 for those running for mayor. The fee is refundable once a candidate submits their financial statement by March 30, 2027.
The race for mayor is already drawing attention. Longtime Mayor Gary McNamara, who has held the office since 2003, has filed for re-election. He faces a challenge from current Deputy Mayor Joe Bachetti, a retired elementary school principal who has served on council for more than 30 years. For the deputy mayor position, sitting Ward 5 Councillor Tania Jobin and Larry Morand have put their names forward.
As of early July, 15 candidates have filed across all positions, including the five ward councillor seats and school board trustee spots. A full list of candidates is posted on the town’s election website.
Voting will take place entirely by internet and telephone, starting September 28 at 10:00 am and running until October 26 at 8:00 pm. The new council will be sworn in at an inaugural meeting on November 17, 2026 at 6:00 pm at the Ciociaro Club at 3745 N Talbot Road. More information for candidates is available at tecumseh.ca.
