So, You Want to Run for Council – Candidate 101 Information Session

Peterborough, ON – Anyone interested in running for Municipal Council or learning more about local government is invited to attend this information session outlining the roles and responsibilities of council members. 

So, You Want to Run for Council – Candidate 101 Information Session will be held Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 7 p.m. at the Market Hall Performing Arts Centre, 140 Charlotte St. 

The 2026 municipal election will be held on Monday, October 26, 2026. 

The information session is designed for anyone thinking about running for Council, as well as their spouses or partners, and anyone interested in learning more about the roles and responsibilities of municipal council members. Participants will have an opportunity to ask questions, meet others, and learn about the expectations and realities of public office. 

The event will be led by Nigel Bellchamber, an experienced municipal governance trainer who has worked with elected officials and senior staff across Ontario since 2002. Bellchamber provides practical guidance on governance and leadership in municipal government. 

Reserve your spot by registering online at peterboroughvotes.ca. 

2026 Municipal Election Information 

The nomination period when papers may be submitted to become a candidate runs from Friday, May 1, 2026, until Friday, August 21, 2026 at 2 p.m., in accordance with provincial legislation. Additional information about eligibility requirements, nomination forms and key election dates is available at peterboroughvotes.ca. 

To ensure you are on the voters list, visit registertovoteon.ca.

If you are a resident, owner or tenant of property in the City of Peterborough, a Canadian citizen, and at least 18 years of age, you are eligible to vote. 

Students living in Peterborough while attending school can vote in the Peterborough municipal election as well as in their home municipality. 

If you are experiencing homelessness, or do not have a permanent home or a fixed address, you can still vote. 

Voting will be specific to your ward, visit the interactive What's My Ward map to determine which ward you reside in. 

The information session is hosted by the City of Peterborough and townships in Peterborough County, including: 

• Township of Asphodel-Norwood 
• Township of Cavan Monaghan 
• Township of Douro-Dummer 
• Township of Havelock-Belmont-Methuen 
• Township of North Kawartha 
• Township of Otonabee-South Monaghan 
• Township of Selwyn 
• Municipality of Trent Lakes