Candidate Information
Who Can Run?
To run as a candidate in a municipal election, you must:
- Be a Canadian citizen and at least 18 years old.
- Be qualified to vote in the municipality by:
- living in the municipality, or
- owning or renting property in the municipality, or
- being the spouse of somebody who owns or rents property in the municipality.
- Not be prohibited from holding municipal office according to Section 29 of the Municipal Elections Act, 1996.
Thinking of Running for Municipal Council?
Considering a run for municipal council? Before making a decision, get a clear and realistic understanding of what serving as an elected official truly involves.
This practical workshop explains how municipal government works, the roles and responsibilities of Council members, and the ethical and legal obligations of public office. Participants will also learn about campaign requirements, time and financial commitments, and the realities of public life.
Designed to equip participants with essential information and reflection tools to help decide whether public service is the right fit for them and prepares those who choose to run to do so responsibly and confidently.
This practical workshop explains:
- how municipal government works
- the roles and responsibilities of Council members
- the ethical and legal obligations of public office
Participants will also learn about campaign requirements, time and financial commitments, and the realities of public life.
Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.
Bruce County Administration Centre
130 Park Street
Walkerton, ON N0G 2V0
Register to attend in person or online
What’s Involved in being on Municipal Council?
As a Councillor, you have representative, policy-making and stewardship roles to play in your municipality. Often these roles will overlap. You will be called on to consider and make decisions on issues that will sometimes be complex and controversial. Most of those decisions will have long-term consequences for your municipality that extend beyond your four-year term of office, and should be made in the context of your municipality’s directions for the long-term health and welfare of your community.
Time-Commitment
The time commitment can be significant. There are two Council meetings per month, with the exception of July, August, and December having only one meeting. Council meetings are scheduled in-person on the second and fourth Monday, commencing at 9:00 am. In addition to Council meetings, there may be additional Public Meetings and Special Council meetings scheduled throughout the year.
Additionally, all members of Council are appointed to Committees of Council, which often meet monthly. Council members are also expected to attend special events held by the Municipality and other community groups. There may be a considerable time spent talking with and responding to the residents. The amount of time required to prepare for a Council or committee meetings can be several hours per week. The Mayor also sits on Bruce County Council.
Meetings
Currently, Council meetings take place in-person at 9:00 am on the second and fourth Monday of each month, with the exception of July, August, and December where there is only one Council meeting.
Contact Us
Municipality of Arran Elderslie
1925 Bruce Road 10, Box 70
Chesley ON, N0G 1L0
Phone: 519-363-3039
Fax: 519-363-2203