Candidate Information

Running for Municipal Office - Everything You Need to Know as an Underrepresented Candidate

The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is offering a series of workshops for people thinking about running for municipal office in the October 2026 elections.

Focused specifically on underrepresented candidates, this 90-minute workshop provides useful insights and strategies to support you in getting your name on the ballot.

Dates:

February 4, 2026 - 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
April 8, 2026 - 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Learn More and Register

Who can be a Candidate?

A person is entitled to be a candidate for mayor or councillor if he or she:

Is a resident of the Township of Scugog, or an owner or tenant of land in the Township of Scugog, or the spouse of such an owner or tenant;

• Is a Canadian citizen;
• Is at least 18 years old; and
• Is not legally prohibited from voting

Who cannot be a Candidate?

• An employee of the municipality unless they take an unpaid leave of absence beginning the day they are nominated and resign if elected to the office
• A judge of any court
• A member of the Provincial Legislature, the Federal House of Commons or Senate who has not resigned from their office by the close of nominations. Proof of resignation must be provided by the close of nominations or the Clerk will not certify the nomination

A candidate who failed to file the necessary financial statement(s) in the last municipal election or by-election.