Thinking about running for Council? Halton municipalities will host candidate information sessions

By Gazette Staff

March 31st, 2026

BURLINGTON ON

Individuals interested in running for Mayor, Regional Chair, Local or Regional Councillor in any Halton Region municipality this October are invited to register for a virtual information session on April 21, 2026, from 6 to 8:30 p.m.

The session, titled “Thinking about running for Council?” is designed to provide a realistic look at life in public office, and will feature presentations from John Mascarin, a leading municipal solicitor, and Kelly Linton, a government change specialist and former elected official.

This virtual session will provide a clear overview of the roles and responsibilities of regional and municipal council members, including their duties, scope of authority, financial and legal obligations, and the day-to-day realities of serving in elected office.

This session will not cover information about nominations, campaigning, or other election processes. Those details will be available through each of the area municipalities closer to the start of nomination this May.

Information for potential candidates

• To register for “Thinking about running for Council?” virtual session, visit the registration page or email elections@oakville.ca.
• Family members of potential candidates are also encouraged to attend to learn about impact on family life.
• The municipal election provides equitable access to those who wish to bring their diverse perspectives and expertise to municipal and regional council.
• Whether a long-time or a new Canadian citizen living in Halton, the municipal election is a significant way to serve your community and help shape the future.
• To be a candidate, the individual must be a Canadian citizen, at least 18 years of age, and a resident of the municipality in which they intend to run for Council. 

Burlington Focus event –

Burlington’s Focus Burlington has held two events for people interested in learning more about running for public office.  Attendance was reasonable.

Anyone serious about running for city council will have had to have started more than 60 days ago if they are to have a hope of creating a public profile that can come close to the identity the current members of council have as a result of the hundreds of photo ops they take part in.

Eligible voters can prepare for Election Day this fall by visiting Elections Ontario portal at registertovoteon.ca to verify or update their information.

For information on the municipal election, contact the respective website: Halton Region, Burlington, Halton Hills, Milton, Oakville.

Burlington is going to have an interesting race for the next Mayor.  Ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns has decided she can do a better job than current Mayor Marianne Meed Ward, who has yet to say if she will run for a third term as Mayor.