Since 1968, the City of Welland has conducted municipal elections using the paper ballot method. This voting method was successfully used during the 2022 Municipal Election and will continue to be used for the 2026 Municipal Election.
Municipal Elections
The municipal and school board elections takes place on October 26, 2026
Municipal elections
The municipal and school board elections takes place on October 26, 2026
Under the Municipal Elections Act, the City Clerk is responsible for conducting municipal elections. The Clerk will oversee all aspects of the 2026 Municipal and School Board Election in accordance with the Act and other applicable legislation.
2026 Municipal election key dates for candidates and residents
| Date | Milestone |
| May 1 | Nomination period begins |
| August 21 | Nomination Day – last day to file or withdraw a nomination before 2 p.m. |
| August 24 | Nominations certified at 4 p.m. |
| October 5 to 9 (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) |
Advanced voting — Civic Square, 60 East Main Street |
| October 17 to 25 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) |
Advanced voting — Seaway Mall, Welland Public Library, 800 Niagara Street |
| October 23 | Last day for third-party advertisers to file their notice of registration |
| October 26 | Voting Day |
| March 30, 2027 | Deadline for candidates and registered third parties to file their financial statements |
During the 2022 Municipal Election, the city implemented open polling locations, allowing electors to vote at any polling location rather than being restricted to a ward-specific poll.
All polling locations for the election will operate as open polls. Electors will have the flexibility to vote at any one of the eight polling locations on Voting Day, regardless of ward.
Polling locations:
- Casa Dante – 34 Lincoln Street
- Croatian National Home – 6 Broadway Avenue
- École Franco-Niagara – 670 Tanguay Avenue
- Royal Canadian Legion – 383 Morningstar Avenue
- Seaway Mall (Library) – 800 Niagara Street
- Welland Community Centre – 145 Lincoln Street
- Wellspring Community Church – 370 South Pelham Road
- Wesley United Church – 244 First Avenue
As a result of approved ward boundary changes, some electors will be voting in a new ward for the 2026 Municipal Election. Residents affected by the ward changes will be notified over the coming months.
Make a difference in your community by helping residents exercise their right to vote. Click on the link below to view jobs.
Important information:
Municipal elections are administered by the City Clerk, who acts as the Returning Officer under the authority of the Municipal Elections Act. If you have any questions regarding the information on this website, please call 905-735-1700 or email election@welland.ca
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