Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
SOUTHWEST MIDDLESEX — The township has confirmed that residents will again cast their ballots online or by phone in the upcoming 2026 municipal and school board elections. Furthermore, during the October 1 meeting, councillors approved the full 2026 meeting schedule for Council and its committees.
Clerk Kendra Kettler presented the report recommending the continuation of electronic voting through Intelivote Systems Inc., the same provider used in the last three elections. “This report recommends continuing with internet voting for the 2026 election,” she told Council. “We have used this method in the past, and we have also used Intelivote specifically for the e-voting software. So, essentially, it is the same as the last election cycle.”
Kettler explained that Southwest Middlesex participates in a joint procurement with other municipalities in Middlesex County to ensure consistency and reduce costs. The by-law passed this month allows staff to begin planning ahead of the May 1, 2026, legislative deadline to declare the municipality’s voting method. The final election costs will be presented as part of the 2026 municipal budget, supported by existing reserves.
Mayor Allan Mayhew emphasized the importance of accessibility for all residents, noting that those without reliable internet or experience using technology will not be excluded. “Staff will go to great lengths of assisting those people coming to the municipal hall and assist them, for those who are not connected or have a lack of digital experience, that they will not be left behind,” he said. Council approved the recommendation unanimously.
Council also adopted the 2026 Council and Committee Meeting Schedule, which sets out regular and planning meetings for the year. Regular sessions will continue to take place on the first Wednesday of each month at 1:30 p.m. and on the third Wednesday at 6 p.m. Exceptions will apply during the summer, when only one meeting per month is held.
“The report presents the proposed 2026 Council and committee schedule,” Kettler said. “It could include adjustments for holidays, budget discussions and special meetings, as well as the inaugural meeting tentatively scheduled for November 18, 2026. All meetings will continue to be live-streamed, supporting public engagement and providing flexibility to both Council, committees, and residents.”
Mayor Mayhew described the advance scheduling as helpful for Council’s organization and committee planning. With no further questions, councillors voted in favour, finalizing the schedule for the new term.
