• Mayor Iain Lovatt announced his bid for reelection this week, unofficially launching the 2026 municipal election cycle.
  • Candidate registration opens May 1, with nomination forms due by Aug. 21.
  • Two information sessions will be held March 26 and April 9 for prospective candidates.
  • Sessions will cover nomination requirements, campaign rules, financial obligations, and council responsibilities.
  • StouffvilleVotes.ca will serve as a central hub for election information important to candidates, voters, and third-party advertisers.
  • Additional workshops and resources are being offered by the Association of Municipalities of Ontario.

 

Mayor Iain Lovatt declared his intention to seek reelection during a Whistle FM interview this week, marking the first major signal of Stouffville’s 2026 municipal election cycle. As incumbent councillors decide their own plans, the Town and its Provincial partners are assembling resources to support residents considering their first run for office.

Candidate registration opens May 1, and Stouffville is promoting two public information sessions aimed at prospective candidates interested in ward or mayoral races. The sessions are intended to outline key rules, procedures, and expectations tied to Ontario’s municipal election process.

“These sessions are designed to help prospective candidates understand nominations, key deadlines, campaign rules, financial responsibilities, and the role of elected officials,” the Town’s website explains. “Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about legislative requirements and ask questions to ensure they are well-prepared before filing their nomination.”

Both sessions will be delivered by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. The first is scheduled for March 26 at 11 a.m. at the Municipal Offices building, 111 Sandiford Dr., with a virtual attendance option to be posted on the Town’s website closer to the date.

A second session will take place April 9 at 6 p.m. at 19 on the Park, 19 Civic Ave. This session will be offered in person only, with no virtual option planned.

According to the Ministry, the presentations will cover responsibilities outlined in the Municipal Elections Act and will apply to both candidates and third-party advertisers. They will also provide a “general overview of the roles and responsibilities of members of council for those individuals considering running for a council seat.”

Locally, the Town continues to build out StouffvilleVotes.ca as a central election hub. The site will feature nomination details, key dates, election sign regulations, candidate listings, polling locations, and other essential information for voters, candidates, and third-party advertisers.

Additional supports are being offered through the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, which is hosting its own candidate workshops. The Healthy Democracy Leadership Series includes programming for both incumbents and newcomers, alongside targeted initiatives for youth, Indigenous, and underrepresented candidates.

Nomination papers must be filed by Aug. 21, giving prospective candidates several months to review requirements, attend information sessions, and determine whether to enter the race. Attendees at the upcoming sessions will also have access to Town-prepared information with Stouffville-specific election details.