For Those Thinking Of Running
The Association of Municipalities of Ontario has three online seminars in advance of the 2026 municipal elections for those considering running for office, those already in office, and young people wondering if they should run.
This series of information sessions was previously offered (not the youth seminar) and the AMO has decided to run it again. So if you’ve already participated, you don’t need to again.
The online program is designed to equip people with the tools, resilience, and confidence to meet the challenge. The series is offered at no charge in two dedicated streams: one for first-time candidates and one for those considering re-election in 2026.
This series provides a skills-focused environment to strengthen leadership foundation and connect with the values that guide public service.
Developed in partnership with Nominee, Stronger Leaders, Stronger Communities combines expert facilitation, peer-to-peer dialogue, and practical tools you can apply immediately. This workshop series is part of AMO’s Healthy Democracy Project.
Stream 1: Considering Re-Election in 2026, (register here) is for municipal elected officials preparing their path forward.
Stream 2: First-Time Candidates for 2026, (register here) is for community members exploring a run for municipal office who want to build confidence, understanding, and support before launching a campaign.
Each stream has four sessions. You can register for the full series or individual sessions.
Session 1— Finding Your Why – leading with purpose and authenticity
Session 2— Praise Your Rivals – managing conflict and building effective relationships
Session 3— What Matters Most – prioritizing mental health and wellbeing
Session 4— Building Your Movement – turning values into action
Workshop Dates:
Stream 1: Considering Re-Election in 2026
February 19
March 26
April 23
May 7
Stream 2: First-Time Candidates for 2026
March 10
April 7
April 28
May 19
Youth Program
If you are a young person interested in running for municipal council in October 2026, AMO is offering a series of workshops.
These sessions will provide insights and strategies to build understanding and confidence around how to become a candidate and running a campaign and are facilitated by three current municipal leaders:
Natasha Salonen, Mayor of the Township of Wilmot was elected the first female mayor of Wilmot Township in October 2022 and, at 27, became the youngest female Mayor in Ontario’s history.
Cam Wales was first elected to Brockville City Council in 2018 at age 23 and re-elected in 2022.
Aidan Kallioinen 18, is a first-term councillor from the Town of Espanola in Northeastern Ontario.
Those participating will learn:
- What to expect running as a candidate and as young person
- Critical strategies for successfully campaigning for municipal office
- Understand what it takes to become a candidate
- Strategies for engagement including communication
Dates:
- Wednesday, February 18, 6:30-8 p.m.
- Wednesday, March 11, 6:30-8 p.m.
- Wednesday, April 15, 6:30-8 p.m.
Registration is free.
(Image Supplied)
