Huron Chamber announces first candidate conversations events in ACW and Goderich

By: Kate Smith

Huron Chamber of Commerce is hosting two events in a planned series of Candidate Conversations during the 2026 municipal election campaign.

The first event is in the evening of Wednesday, September 9 at Kingsbridge Centre in Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh (ACW). The second will take place in the afternoon of Sunday, September 14 at The Livery in Goderich.

Additional candidate events are being planned in other communities across Huron County and will be announced once confirmed.

“Municipal leaders make decisions that shape the communities where people live, work, raise families and operate businesses,” said Colin Carmichael, Executive Director of the Huron Chamber of Commerce.

“These conversations will give residents an opportunity to hear how candidates understand both the priorities of their municipality and the broader responsibilities that come with serving on Huron County Council.”

These events will use a moderated, conversation-style format to help residents learn more about the people seeking senior municipal leadership positions for mayor, reeve or deputy mayor and deputy reeve.

Carmichael says topics will not be limited to business or economic development.

Candidates will be asked to address community priorities including local services, infrastructure, housing, planning, recreation, taxation, governance and other issues that are likely to come before local and county councils.

Each event will also include an informal meet-and-greet open to all candidates seeking election to municipal council. This will give residents an opportunity to speak directly with candidates who are not participating in the moderated discussion.

“The moderated discussion is designed to help voters compare candidates for the communities’ senior leadership positions, while the meet-and-greet ensures every candidate has an opportunity to meet residents and discuss the issues that matter most,” added Carmichael.

The events will be open to the public, with no registration required.

Information about the events, along with other election-related resources, including up-to-date lists of nominees, will be available through the Municipal Election Hub on the Huron Chamber website.