The Town of Cobourg is preparing for the 2026 municipal and school board elections, with nomination papers opening May 1st for residents interested in running for office.
Candidates can file nomination papers for mayor, deputy mayor, councillor, and select school board trustee positions by booking a nomination meeting through the Clerk’s Office at Victoria Hall. Meetings will run from May 1st at 8:30 a.m. until August 21st at 2 p.m.
The filing fee is 200 dollars for mayor and 100 dollars for deputy mayor, councillor, and school board trustee positions. Municipal candidates, excluding school board trustees, must also submit an endorsement form signed by 25 eligible voters in Cobourg.
Voting day is Monday, October 26th, with online internet voting beginning October 16th at 9 a.m.
The town is also hosting two candidate information sessions for anyone considering a run.
The first takes place April 30th at Venture13 and will include a Municipal Government 101 presentation led by municipal law expert John Mascarin, along with representatives from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
A second session is planned for May 14th at Northumberland County headquarters.
Cobourg is also encouraging youth participation through an “I Voted” sticker design contest and a 350-word essay contest called “My Ideal Town,” giving young residents a chance to share their ideas for the future of the community.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
