Lead locally: Nomination period opens May 1 for the 2026 municipal election
The nomination period for Kingston’s 2026 municipal election is approaching on Friday, May 1. Those interested in running for Mayor, district Councillor, or school board trustee are reminded to book an appointment to submit completed nomination papers.
Booking a time slot helps reduce wait times and gives election officials dedicated time to help candidates finalize paperwork and answer questions about forms or requirements.
The City encourages potential candidates to visit Get Involved Kingston to see key dates, guidance, and tools to support a smooth nomination process, including registration for upcoming candidate information sessions. The nomination period closes at 2 p.m. on Aug. 21.
“This election, we are providing more ways for potential candidates to prepare, ask questions and understand the process,” says Derek Ochej, Deputy City Clerk. “These tools are intended to make engaging in local democracy easier and more accessible.”
Eligibility criteria
To run for municipal office, candidates must be:
- At least 18 years of age
- A Canadian citizen
- Live in Kingston, or own or rent property in Kingston (or be married to someone who does)
- Not legally prohibited from voting or otherwise disqualified by law
Learn more
Learn more about the municipal election, including candidacy, on the City’s election website at CityofKingston.ca/Election, and through the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO).
Contact Us
City of Kingston
City Hall
216 Ontario Street
Kingston, ON K7L 2Z3
Canada
contactus@cityofkingston.ca
Phone: 613-546-0000
The City of Kingston acknowledges that we are on the traditional homeland of the Anishinabek, Haudenosaunee, and the Huron-Wendat, and thanks these nations for their care and stewardship over this shared land.
Today, the City is committed to working with Indigenous peoples and all residents to pursue a united path of reconciliation.
Learn more about the City's reconciliation initiatives.
