With just one week remaining for individuals interested in participating in the upcoming municipal election this fall, time is running out to submit their necessary paperwork.
On October 26, voters will have the opportunity to elect city and township councillors, mayors, school board trustees, and regional councillors in Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge.
Natalia Chebel, the City of Waterloo’s deputy clerk and manager of legislative services, emphasized the importance of submitting paperwork promptly to avoid any last-minute complications. She highlighted that candidates should allocate sufficient time for the processing of their paperwork, ensuring completeness to avoid delays.
Candidates are required to collect signatures, provide identification, proof of residency, and pay a fee to run for office, with mayoral candidates paying $200 and other positions requiring a $100 fee.
The deadline for submitting nomination papers is set for 2 p.m. on Friday, August 21. Chebel clarified that this timeline aligns with legislative requirements, emphasizing the necessity to adhere to the stipulated deadline.
Across Waterloo Region, the list of candidates continues to expand as the election approaches. Here’s a summary of the ongoing local races:
Regional Races:
In a notable change for this fall’s election in Waterloo Region, voters will not directly elect a regional chair. The appointment of the next regional chair will be made by Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Rob Flack post-election, as announced by the province earlier this year.
While the exact number of applicants remains undisclosed, current regional Chair Karen Redman confirmed her application for the role. Speculation surrounds the possibility of a local elected mayor assuming the regional chair position, a notion that Premier Doug Ford did not dismiss during a recent press conference.
Regarding regional councillors, all incumbent councillors have expressed their intent to seek re-election, with numerous candidates vying for positions in all three races.
Cambridge:
Mayor Jan Liggett is pursuing a second term, facing competition from four other candidates. Notably, Brian Kennedy withdrew from the mayoral race due to unforeseen personal circumstances.
Kitchener:
Mayor Berry Vrbanovic seeks a fourth term, challenged by three additional candidates. With the exception of one sitting councillor, all others have filed for re-election, including Coun. Ayo Owodunni’s decision not to run again.
Waterloo:
Mayor Dorothy McCabe is running for a second term unopposed. Current councillors Royce Bodaly and Jen Vasic have announced they will not seek re-election, leaving their positions open for new candidates.
North Dumfries, Wellesley, Wilmot, and Woolwich:
Various mayoral and councillor races in these regions feature a mix of incumbents seeking re-election and new candidates stepping forward to participate in the electoral process. Notable withdrawals and announcements have shaped the dynamics of the upcoming election in these areas.