Nomination Period Opens for 2026 Ontario Municipal Elections
By Staff Report
Residents across Ontario can now officially enter the race for local office, as nominations for the 2026 municipal elections opened today, May 1.
In Richmond Hill, the last municipal election saw David West elected as mayor, alongside a council that included several first-time councillors, reflecting a shift in local political dynamics and bringing new voices to the table.
Individuals interested in running for mayor, councillor, or school board trustee are now able to file their nomination papers with their local municipal clerk. The nomination window will remain open until August 21 at 2 p.m., giving prospective candidates nearly four months to register.
The opening of nominations marks the formal start of the municipal election cycle, with campaign activities permitted once a candidate has officially filed.
In Richmond Hill, candidates must be eligible electors in the municipality. This means they must be Canadian citizens, at least 18 years old, and have a qualifying connection to the city—such as residing, owning, or renting property there, or being the spouse of someone who does.
As the nomination period begins, local political dynamics are expected to shape the campaign. Under Mayor West, council has dealt with ongoing issues such as growth, housing density, and community safety—topics likely to remain central in the upcoming election.
Recent years have also seen legal proceedings involving Ward 5 Councillor Karen Cilevitz. She was originally charged in 2020 with fraud over $5,000 and breach of trust following a police investigation into the alleged misuse of funds. In 2022, Cilevitz pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of fraud under $5,000, while the original charges were withdrawn.
With nominations now open, prospective candidates and voters alike are expected to watch closely as the race for local leadership begins to take shape.