Lead Local: Municipal candidate engagement event set for April 2026

Waterloo Region – Municipalities across Waterloo Region are coming together to invite hopeful municipal election candidates to learn how to run for office.

The Lead Local: Municipal Election Candidate Engagement Event is designed to broaden awareness of the October 26, 2026, municipal election process and support individuals considering running for office. The event will take place on April 23, 2026, from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at the Ken Seiling Waterloo Region Museum.

This in-person event aims to amplify messaging, provide guidance to potential candidates, and foster diversity in local governance. Attendees will benefit from formal presentations by experts and elected officials, followed by informal breakout sessions for networking and engagement.

Event highlights include:

• Keynote presentations on the Municipal Elections Act & Provincial Guides by Payton Ebel, Municipal Advisor, Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing; and Municipal Government 101 by John Mascarin, Partner, Aird and Berlis.
• Panel discussion featuring retired local elected officials, sharing campaign insights and lessons learned.
• Breakout sessions with Area Municipal Returning Officers on candidate nomination processes and voting procedures.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure equitable representation in municipal politics by connecting aspiring candidates with resources and support networks.

For more information, please visit the Eventbrite page.

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Quotes:

“Local government plays a meaningful and direct role in shaping the daily lives of residents. Decisions made at the municipal level significantly influence the wellbeing of the community. Sessions like this help potential candidates better understand what it truly means to serve on council, including the responsibilities, expectations, and commitment required of elected officials. When individuals have a clear understanding of the role, they are better equipped to serve their communities in a thoughtful and responsible manner. This session will offer valuable insight into elected positions in advance of the 2026 Municipal Election.”

-       Jennifer Shaw, Director of Legislative Services and Clerk, City of Cambridge

"Running for office can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time candidates. By bringing together experts and community organizations, we’re creating a supportive environment where future leaders can learn, ask questions, and build connections. Events like this are essential because they break down barriers to participation. By providing clear information and connecting candidates with resources, we help ensure that anyone, regardless of background, can feel confident stepping into public service."

-       Amanda Fusco, Director of Legislative Services and City Clerk, City of Kitchener

“Municipal government plays a critical role in shaping the future of our community. From roads and infrastructure to land-use planning, parks, and essential local services, Council decisions affect our residents every day. This event will connect prospective candidates with the information and resources needed to put their name forward for Municipal Office and to help better understand the responsibilities of serving on Municipal Council.”

-       Ashley Good, Municipal Clerk, Township of North Dumfries

“Anyone with an interest in serving their community is encouraged to attend this information session and learn more about what it means to run for municipal office. Participating in local government is a meaningful way to share the future of our region, and we want to ensure that all prospective candidates feel informed, prepared, and supported as they consider this important decision.”

-       Tim Brubacher, Director, Council and Administrative Services and Regional Clerk, Region of Waterloo

“Municipal government works best when people with different perspectives and backgrounds decide to get involved. This event will help potential candidates understand more about the election process and what it is really like to run for local council. Former elected officials will be available to answer questions and share their experience. If you’re considering becoming a candidate in this year’s municipal election, this is a great place to start.”

-       Natalia Chebel, Deputy City Clerk, City of Waterloo

“This regional event provides an excellent opportunity for residents considering municipal office to gain valuable insight into the roles and responsibilities of elected officials, as well as the election process. It also offers participants the chance to engage in breakout discussions with individual municipalities, allowing for a clearer understanding of each municipality’s unique structure and operations.”

-       Amy Harron, Municipal Clerk, Township of Wellesley

“This event is a great opportunity for anyone considering running for municipal office to learn more about the role and election process.”

-       Amelia Jaggard, Manager of Legislative Services and Municipal Clerk, Township of Wilmot

“This collaborative initiative allows us all to provide an enhanced information program for the things that will be similar for all candidates, while the breakout sessions offer the opportunity for Region, City and Township candidates to focus on topics specific to the individual race they are running in. As regional clerks, we are excited to share this opportunity with those who may be interested in running for municipal office.”

-       Jeff Smith, Director of Corporate Services and Clerk, Township of Woolwich