Make a difference in your community. Running for municipal council gives you the chance to:
- Shape local policies and priorities
- Bring your ideas, experience, and voice to the table
- Lead change and address the issues that matter to you
- Be part of the democratic process at the local level
As a member of Council, you'll represent your community, help guide decisions, and work to make your municipality stronger. You'll attend meetings, help set policy, and ensure the Municipality of Chatham-Kent is well-run and financially sound.
If you're passionate about your community and ready to lead, consider running for office.
Who can run for office?
You can run for municipal office if you meet all of the following criteria on the day you file your nomination:
- You are a resident of the municipality, or you own or rent property there (or are the spouse of someone who does)
- You are a Canadian citizen
- You are at least 18 years old
- You are not otherwise disqualified from holding municipal office under any legislation
Election Dates
The 2026 Municipal Election is Monday, October 26, 2026.
- Municipal elections are held every four years.
- Voting day is always the last Monday in October.
The next term of Council will run from November 15, 2026, to November 14, 2030.
Positions Available
Mayor - 1 position at large
Councillors - 14 positions within 8 wards
School Board Trustees - 12 positions (9 separate races; 4 different school boards)
Candidate Nominations
Nominations open Friday, May 1, 2026 and close on Nomination Day, Friday, August 21, 2026, at 2:00 pm.
Candidates are required to complete the following to file a nomination:
- Nomination Form 1
- Endorsement of Nominations Form 2 –25 signatures
- Proof of identification
- Declaration of Qualifications
- Consent to release personal information
Withdrawal Deadline: Candidates have until 2:00 pm on Nomination Day (Friday, August 21, 2026) to withdraw their nomination.
Book an Appointment: All candidates must book an appointment with the Clerk's Office to file their nomination papers. Email ckclerk@chatham-kent.ca to book your appointment.
Candidate List: Once filed, candidate names will be posted on our website and updated daily.
When to Start Campaigning: You cannot begin campaigning until your nomination papers have been officially filed.
Ward Boundaries
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent is separated into 8 different wards for the municipal election. You are required to vote in the ward you reside in. However, you may run in any ward.
