Elections

Municipal elections give residents a voice in shaping the future of the Municipality of Callander. Elections are governed by the Municipal Elections Act, 1996 and are held every four years.This page provides information for voters, prospective candidates, and anyone interested in participating in local democracy.

Elections at a Glance

Thinking of Running for Council?

Serving on Council is an opportunity to help shape the future of the Municipality of Callander. Before submitting a nomination, prospective candidates are encouraged to understand the eligibility requirements, responsibilities of the role, and key election dates.

To be a candidate, you must:

Be a resident, property owner, or tenant in Callander, or the spouse of one
Be a Canadian citizen
Be 18 years of age or older on October 26, 2026
Be eligible to vote and not disqualified from holding municipal office

Learn more on this page about what it means to serve on Council, including expected time commitments, governance responsibilities, and required policies.

Candidate nomination forms and information will be available once the nomination period opens.

Important Dates – 2026 Municipal Election

Nomination Period Opens:
May 1, 2026

Nomination Day (Deadline):
August 21, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.

Election Day:
Monday, October 26, 2026
Polls Open: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Voting Method:

The Municipality of Callander will use Vote by Mail for the 2026 Municipal Election. Ballot packages will be mailed to eligible voters with instructions on how to complete and return them.

Are You on the Voters’ List?

Being on the Voters’ List helps ensure you receive the information you need to vote in the 2026 Municipal Election.You can vote if you are:

A resident, property owner, or tenant in Callander, or the spouse of one
A Canadian citizen
18 years of age or older on October 26, 2026
Not prohibited from voting by law

Identification Required

Ontario Driver’s Licence
Utility bill
Bank or credit card statement
Property tax assessment
Government cheque or statement
Ontario Photo Card
Insurance policy or statement

Check or update your information online:
RegisterToVoteON.ca

Voting in a Municipal Election

Who Can Vote?

You are eligible to vote in a Callander municipal election if you meet the requirements outlined above and are listed on the Voters’ List.

Accessibility and Voter Assistance

The Municipality of Callander is committed to ensuring municipal elections are accessible to all eligible voters. Election accessibility measures and voter assistance options will be communicated through official election notices prior to voting days.

Running for Municipal Office in Callander

What It Means to Be a Councillor in Callander

Councillors are elected by residents to represent the community and help guide the direction of local government. Council acts collectively to:

Represent residents and support community well-being
Develop and evaluate municipal policies and programs
Determine which services the municipality provides
Maintain financial integrity
Ensure transparency and accountability in municipal operations

Expectations of the Role

Representing the Community

Councillors bring forward resident concerns, ideas, and priorities while considering the broader public interest.

Policy and Program Oversight

Councillors participate in policy development and decision-making in accordance with provincial legislation and municipal bylaws.

Financial and Governance Responsibility

Council members review budgets, establish priorities, and help ensure responsible use of public funds.

Participation in Meetings and Committees

Councillors attend Council meetings and may serve on committees or boards, requiring preparation and informed decision-making.

Working with Municipal Staff

Councillors operate within a governance model that distinguishes Council’s role from staff responsibilities.

Time Commitment

Serving on Council involves a significant time commitment throughout the four-year term, including meetings, preparation, resident engagement, community events, and staying informed on municipal and provincial issues.

Policies and Legislation

If elected, Councillors are required to be familiar with and comply with key legislation and municipal policies, including the Municipal Act, 2001, the Procedural By-law, the Code of Conduct for Council, the Communication and Community Engagement Policy, and the Ontario Municipal Councillors Guide.

Election Results

Official election results will be published following the close of voting and posted on this page once certified by the Clerk.

Contact the Clerk

For election-related questions, voter information, or nomination inquiries:

Municipal Clerk
Municipality of Callander
Phone: 705-752-1410
Email: clerk@callander.ca
280 Main Street North, Callander

Official notices, updates, and time-sensitive election information will be posted through the Municipality’s News & Alerts page.