Today, Wrenford City Council passed the second and third readings of By-law 2025-082, updating the city's election rules ahead of the October 26, 2026 municipal election. These changes follow new provincial legislation and are designed to keep the voting process clear, fair, and accessible for every resident.
Under the updated rules, candidates will need more support to get on the ballot. Councillor hopefuls must collect 50 nomination signatures, while the mayoral candidate must gather 100. Each candidate must also pay a $100.00 nomination deposit. Voting hours on election day will remain from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., giving you plenty of time to cast your ballot.
The city is also launching a Permanent Electors Registry. Only residents listed on this registry can act as a voucher to confirm another person's address on election day. If you plan to run for office, you must collect the required nomination signatures and submit your deposit before the deadline. Residents can check the registry online and learn how to request a special ballot without using a fax machine.
A major change this year is how ballots will be counted. Provincial law now requires all ballots to be hand-counted instead of using electronic tabulators. This means election workers will need more time and staff, so official results will be released later on election night than in the past.
“These updates ensure Wrenford’s election process stays clear, consistent, and ready for voters,” said City Clerk Nadia Kowalczyk. “We are making sure every resident can participate safely and easily.”
City Council has approved extra funding to cover the new requirements. Hand-counting ballots will cost the city an additional $940,000, bringing the total estimated budget for the 2026 election to $1.5 million. The city is also asking the province for support to help offset these rising costs.
For full details on the updated by-law, how to register to vote, and what to expect on election day, visit the Elections page.