Less than three weeks remain to file Nominations for the 2026 Municipal and School Board Election

Individuals thinking about running for municipal office in the City of Owen Sound have fourteen business days remaining to submit their nomination papers for the 2026 Municipal Election. 

Nominations for the offices of Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Councillor, and School Board Trustee will be accepted until 2:00 p.m. on Friday, August 21, 2026. 

“Strong communities are built by engaged citizens willing to lead, serve, and help shape the future,” said Mayor Ian Boddy. “If you are passionate about Owen Sound and want to make a difference in your community, I encourage you to learn more about the nomination process and consider putting your name forward.” 

With just three weeks remaining before nominations close, the City is encouraging prospective candidates to begin the filing process now. Submitting nomination papers well in advance of the deadline gives candidates and election staff time to review documentation and address any issues before nominations officially close. 

Candidates are strongly encouraged to book an appointment with the Election Team as early as possible. Election staff are available to answer questions, review nomination requirements, and help ensure nomination packages are complete before they are filed. 

Some of the most common reasons nomination packages require correction is incomplete or inaccurate endorsement information. Frequent issues include: 

• Missing information related to a qualifying address, such as no postal code, or incomplete information; 

• Missing information for the candidate being endorsed; 

• Missing endorser signatures; and 

• Incomplete endorsement forms. 

Submitting nomination papers early provides an opportunity to identify and address these issues before the deadline, helping candidates avoid unnecessary complications as Nomination Day approaches. 

Individuals interested in running for office can arrange an appointment with the Election Team by emailing elections@owensound.ca  or calling 519-370-7350. 

Quick Facts: 

• Additional information about candidate eligibility, nomination requirements, and the 2026 Municipal Election is available at OwenSoundVotes.ca. 

• The voting period runs from October 16-26, 2026.  

• Voting can be done during this period at any time, from any where. 

• Election Centres will be open for the duration of the voting period where voters can ask questions, register to vote, get voting assistance, and vote independently.  

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