There’s something special about a crisp October morning in the County of Brant. As the leaves turn to fiery oranges and deep reds along the Grand River and our lush farmland prepares for the harvest, another important season is unfolding: election season.
We often talk about the "big" elections, the ones that happen in Ottawa or Toronto, but the decisions made right here in our own backyard have the biggest impact on our daily lives. From the quality of our roads and the future of the stunning historic architecture in Paris to how our community grows and preserves its quiet beauty, it all comes down to the votes we cast this fall.
Standing at a crossroads of growth and tradition, the 2026 Municipal and School Board Election is our chance to shape the heart of our region. I’ve lived here long enough to know that "kitchen table conversations" about local issues are where the best ideas start, but those ideas only become reality when we show up at the polls.
The countdown is on! Election Day is Monday, October 26, 2026. 🗳️
To make sure your voice is heard, I’ve put together this simple, 5-step guide on how to register and vote. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a newcomer who just fell in love with our community, here is everything you need to know.
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Before we get into the "how," let’s make sure you’re eligible to have your say. In the County of Brant, we want every eligible neighbor to participate. To vote in the 2026 municipal election, you must:
- Be a Canadian citizen.
- Be at least 18 years old on Election Day (October 26, 2026).
- Live in the County of Brant, OR be a non-resident owner or tenant of land here, OR be the spouse of such an owner or tenant.
It’s pretty straightforward, but it’s the foundation of our local democracy. If you’ve recently moved here from another part of Ontario or Canada, welcome! Just make sure your residency status is updated so you can vote in your new home.
Step 2: Check (and Double-Check) the Voters’ List
Our voters' list is compiled using data from Elections Ontario. However, mistakes can happen: people move, names change, or sometimes someone just gets missed. You don't want to show up on voting day only to find out you aren't on the list!
You can check your status through:
- The County Website: Visit the official Brant elections page.
- The Clerk’s Office: You can inquire in person at 66 Grand River St. N. in Paris.
- Elections Ontario: Use their online voter registration service to ensure your information is up to date.
Pro-Tip: Don’t wait until October! Checking now takes two minutes and saves you a headache later. If you aren't on the list, you'll need to fill out an Application to Amend the Voters’ List.
Step 3: Know Your Ward and Your Candidates
The County of Brant is a beautiful, diverse patchwork of communities, and we are divided into geographical wards to ensure everyone is represented fairly. Knowing which ward you live in is crucial because it determines which candidates will be on your ballot.
- Ward 1: Covering the northern reaches including St. George.
- Ward 2: Centered around the historic heart of Paris.
- Ward 3: Including the bustling areas south of Paris.
- Ward 4: Taking in the vast western farmlands.
- Ward 5: Our southeastern corner, bordering Hamilton and Haldimand.
Once you know your ward, it’s time to do some homework. Who is running? What do they stand for? At BrantVotes, we’ve been tracking the candidates closely. You can check out our profiles on Ella Haley or Greg Anderson to get a feel for the local leadership landscape.
Step 4: Choose Your Voting Method
Brant has embraced modern technology to make voting more accessible than ever. For the 2026 election, we have more options than just the traditional paper ballot.
- Online and Telephone Voting: This is the ultimate convenience. From October 19 to October 25, 2026, you can cast your vote from your own living room. You’ll receive a Voter Information Letter (VIL) in the mail with a unique PIN and instructions on how to log in or call in.
- Voter Assistance Centers: If you prefer a bit of help or don't have reliable internet, each ward will have at least two Voter Assistance Centers. These are great for in-person support.
- Election Day (October 26): If you’re a traditionalist, you can still vote in person on the big day. Centers will be open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Whether you’re voting from your tractor in the field or walking down to a community center in Paris, choose the method that works best for your schedule.
Step 5: Bring the Right ID and Cast Your Ballot!
If you choose to vote in person at a Voter Assistance Center or on Election Day, you must bring identification. Your ID needs to show your name and your qualifying Brant address.
Accepted forms of ID include:
- Ontario Driver’s Licence or Ontario Photo Card.
- A utility bill (hydro, water, gas) or a bank statement.
- A government check or tax bill.
Remember, a passport is great for travel, but it doesn't show your address, so it usually isn't enough on its own for municipal elections!
Why Your Vote Matters in 2026
I travelled out to the edges of Ward 4 last week, and looking over those rolling fields, I was reminded of how much "local" really means. We aren't just voting for a name on a sign; we are voting for fiscal responsibility, for better infrastructure, and for a council that understands the unique needs of a rural-urban mix.
There’s a lot at stake this year. We’re looking at new hospital projects, discussions about the Brantford Airport land transfer, and the ongoing balance of development vs. preservation. If you want to dive deeper into how our government works, check out our guide on Navigating Canadian Governance.
Important Dates to Remember 🗓️
- May 1 – August 21, 2026: Candidate Nomination Period.
- October 19 – 25, 2026: Advance Voting Period (Online & Telephone).
- October 26, 2026: ELECTION DAY (10:00 AM – 8:00 PM).
Our community is only as strong as the people who participate in it. Let’s make the 2026 election the highest turnout we’ve ever seen!
Do you have other concerns about the registration process? Or maybe you’re curious about a specific candidate’s platform? Drop your thoughts below! We love hearing from our fellow residents.
For more local election news and updates, stay tuned to BrantVotes.ca. See you at the polls!
