Central Huron Council to strengthen election rules ahead of 2026 votes

Central Huron Council based in Clinton is being asked to approve updated rules issuing the use of municipal resources during election campaigns, as part of preparations for the 2026 municipal election.

A report recommends that Council revisions to Corporate Policy GE604, which sets out how municipal staff, property, and resources can be used during an election period. The update is required under Ontario’s Municipal Elections Act, 1996.

The proposed changes aim to tighten existing rules and provide clearer guidance to candidates, staff, and elected officials.

Municipal officials say the policy is designed to protect the integrity of the election process and ensure a fair playing field for all participants. It strengthens the rules to keep elections transparent.

The policy applies to anyone involved in an election, including municipal and school board candidates as well as registered third-party advertisers.

Among its key provisions are limitations on the use of municipal staff time, electronic devices (phone, computers, email,) official websites and social media accounts, branding such as logos and slogans, and municipal facilities for campaign purposes.

Under the proposed rules, municipal staff would be prohibited from engaging in campaign activities during working hours unless they are on approved leave, such as vacation or unpaid time off. The policy will also be distributed to all municipal employees to ensure awareness and compliance.

Candidates will only be able to use a single campaign for website or social media with their nomination filing, which will be posted on the municipal website for public reference and removed following the election.

The policy also offers guidance to sitting members of council, advising them not to use municipally issued devices or email accounts for campaign-related activities.

At the same time, it clarifies that elected officials may continue to carry out their regular duties and represent constituents during the election period.

Municipal staff noted that similar policies from other jurisdictions were reviewed in developing the update, with the goal of aligning Central Huron’s practices with broader standards.

Council is expected to consider the recommendation at an upcoming meeting as part of its ongoing election readiness efforts, ensuring is a fair election process.