Lead Where You Live is AMO’s comprehensive guide for anyone considering running in the 2026 municipal election. This resource walks you through what municipal councils do, what it means to serve your community, and the steps involved in launching a successful campaign. Whether you’re exploring the idea or preparing to file your nomination, this guide provides practical information, tools, and insights to support your journey.
Through the Healthy Democracy Solutions Bank, AMO has developed a Candidate Resource Catalogue for candidates running for municipal office. Resources range from helping you make the decision to run or run again, to building your team, crafting your message, and getting out the vote.
AMO’s Free Workshop Series and Leadership Programs
AMO is offering programs designed to support aspiring candidates and returning elected officials. Whether you are considering your first run for office, seeking re-election, represent an underrepresented community, or a youth, we have a program tailored for you. View details of the free workshops below. Currently in development is a session for Indigenous candidates-stay tuned for more information.
AMO’s Healthy Democracy Leadership Series: Supporting Local Leadership in run up to the 2026 Municipal
As Prince Edward County enters a pivotal election year, the need for professional rigour and transparent governance has never been greater. With the 2026 Municipal Election on the horizon, we are committed to empowering candidates who are ready to move beyond ‘politics as usual’ and tackle the County’s $131M debt and infrastructure challenges with a technical, data-driven mindset. Whether you are a first-time challenger or a concerned citizen, this guide provides the essential tools—from critical nomination deadlines and legal requirements to campaign strategies and ‘First 100 Days’ priorities—to help you transition from resident to representative. It is time to restore fiscal discipline to Shire Hall and ensure every tax dollar delivers real value for our community.
Key Deadlines for 2026
The nomination period is the only window during which you can officially file your paperwork.
- Nomination Period Opens: Friday, May 1, 2026.
- Nomination Day (Deadline): Friday, August 21, 2026, at 2:00 PM.
- Withdrawal Deadline: If you change your mind, you must withdraw in writing by 2:00 PM on August 21, 2026.
- Term of Office Begins: November 15, 2026.
AMO workshops in April 2026
The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is offering several free, virtual candidate training workshops in April 2026 to prepare prospective candidates for the October 2026 municipal elections. Association of Municipalities of Ontario Key April 2026 Workshop Dates & Topics: Registration Information: All workshops are free but require registration. Participants can register through the AMO website. These sessions … Continue reading
Nomination, Paperwork & Filing Requirements
In Ontario, municipal elections are governed by the Municipal Elections Act. For the upcoming October 26, 2026 election in Prince Edward County, the process for becoming an official candidate is formal and time-sensitive. 1. Key Deadlines for 2026 The nomination period is the only window during which you can officially file your paperwork. 2. Required … Continue reading
Strategy- legal compliance with community engagement
To transition from a concerned resident to a certified candidate for the October 26, 2026 election, you need a strategy that combines legal compliance with community engagement. Below is a campaign launch checklist and a script for collecting the required 25 endorsement signatures. Phase 1: The Campaign Launch Checklist Do not spend or raise any … Continue reading
“First 100 Days” priority list
To gain the trust of residents, your “First 100 Days” must focus on actionable transparency and fiscal restraint. Below is a high-impact priority list designed to show potential signers that you are ready to treat the County’s $90.9M budget with professional rigour. The “Technical Brain” First 100 Days Priority List Month 1: The Fiscal … Continue reading
Social media presence
To stand out in the 2026 election, your social media presence should be punchy, data-driven, and authentic. Since 95% of a message is retained via video compared to just 10% in text, a 30-second “hook” is your most powerful tool. Here are two versions of a 30-second script—one focused on Fiscal Accountability and one on … Continue reading
Bio tailored for your Facebook “About” section
Here is a 150-word bio tailored for your Facebook “About” section. It balances your professional background with your specific “Technical Brain” priorities. [Your Name] for Prince Edward County Council As a [Your Profession, e.g., Financial Analyst / Project Manager / Engineer] with [Number] years of experience managing complex budgets and operations, I am running for … Continue reading
“Pinned Post” draft for your Facebook page
Here is a “Pinned Post” draft for your Facebook page. It is designed to be the first thing visitors see—defining your technical approach and setting a tone of professional accountability. PINNED POST: Why a “Service Delivery Review” is my Day 1 Priority Many candidates talk about “cutting waste,” but without a technical plan, that’s … Continue reading
“Comment Policy” for your page
“Comment Policy” for your page to ensure that discussions stay respectful and focused on these technical issues. Maintaining a focused, professional digital presence is key to establishing your “Technical Brain” brand. By setting clear boundaries, you signal to voters that you prioritize data and civil discourse over political noise. Here is a draft you can … Continue reading