Key Dates

Below are milestone dates for Candidates, Third Party Advertisers and Residents related to the 2026 Municipal and School Board Elections.

KEY DATES – 2026

Wednesday, April 29, 2026

• Niagara Public Information Session for those considering becoming a Candidate in the 2026 Municipal and School Board Election at the Welland Community Centre (Atrium and Theatre) located at 145 Lincoln Street, Welland. Doors open at 5:00 pm., with a presentation by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing beginning at 6:00 pm. Town of Fort Erie representatives will be available at our booth to answer any questions.

Friday, May 1, 2026

• First day for candidates to file a nomination paper for the office of mayor, regional chair, town council, regional council or school board trustee.
• First day for an individual or entity to file a notice of registration as a third-party advertiser.
• To file a nomination with the Town Clerk, it is recommended to make an appointment. Please contact Town Hall to schedule an appointment.
• The campaign period begins once a nomination paper or notice of registration is filed.
• Preliminary expense limits and other legislative documentation are provided to candidates and third-party advertisers on the day they file.

Friday, August 21, 2026

• Last day for a candidate to file or withdraw a nomination.
• Nominations or withdrawals cannot be accepted beyond 2:00 pm.

Monday, August 24, 2026

• Certification of nomination papers to be completed by 4:00 pm.
• Declaration of acclamation provided after 4:00 pm.
• After the certification of the candidates, Proxy appointment forms will be available for electors who cannot vote on any of the voting days.

Tuesday, September 1, 2026

• The voters' list is available to certified candidates.
• Revision period begins - Electors may update or add their names to the voters' list.

Thursday, October 1, 2026

• Final expense limits are provided to candidates and third-party advertisers.

Advance Poll Dates To Be Determined

Friday, October 23, 2026

• Last day for an individual or entity to file a notice of registration as a third-party advertiser.

Monday, October 26, 2026 - Election Day

• Voting Day - Polls will be open from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.

Monday, November 16, 2026

• Inaugural Meeting of the new term of Town Council

Thursday, December 31, 2026

• The campaign period ends for candidates and registered third-parties.
• Last day for candidates or registered third parties to file an Extension of the campaign period (Form 6).