Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
STRATHROY-CARADOC - Council has approved the use of internet and telephone voting for the upcoming municipal election scheduled for October 25, 2026. The decision was made at the September 2 council meeting following a recommendation from staff.
Mayor Colin Grantham introduced the matter, outlining three recommendations: to authorize the use of internet and telephone voting, to waive the municipality’s purchasing by-law in order to proceed with Intelivote Systems Inc., and to refer By-law No. 90-25 for approval. The motions were moved by Councillor Frank Kennes and seconded by Councillor Steve Pelkman before being carried unanimously.
Jennifer Pereira, Director of Legal and Legislative Services and Clerk, presented the report. She explained that under Section 42 of the Municipal Elections Act, municipalities may pass a by-law authorizing alternative voting methods. Strathroy-Caradoc has used internet and telephone voting in the last three elections.
“We are in partnership with Middlesex and Elgin counties to provide us a group rate, which is why we are requesting that the provisions of the purchasing by-law be waived in order for us to enter into the agreement with Intelivote,” Pereira said. “We did review other vendors, but Intelivote came out pretty strong.”
The cost of the service is estimated at $2.75 per elector, up about 30 cents from the 2022 election, bringing the projected total to approximately $70,000. The 2022 election saw just over 18,000 voters participate.
Councillor Greg Willsie sought clarification on whether the 18,000 figure represented eligible voters or those who actually voted. Pereira confirmed it was the number of residents who voted. Willsie also raised concerns that some seniors had found the telephone system difficult to use.
“We do have hope to have a vote centre,” Pereira responded. “It’s not a polling station, but there will be computers set up and staff assistance for people that are struggling and that can’t place those votes.” She added that discussions are ongoing to provide additional centres, potentially including one at the Mount Brydges library as in past elections.
Councillor Brian Derbyshire questioned how the system prevents fraudulent use of voter cards. Pereira explained that changes at the provincial level now allow municipalities to access a more complete and current voters list, supplemented by the DataFix software used to verify and update elector information.
With no further questions, council voted in favour of the motions, confirming the continuation of alternative voting methods for the next municipal election.
