Oxford municipalities hosting candidate information meeting

Oxford County’s eight area municipalities are partnering to host a candidate information session in preparation for the 2026 municipal and school board election.

The session will take on Thursday, March 26, at 6 p.m., virtually and in person in the Council Chambers at the Oxford County Administration Building, 21 Reeve St., Woodstock.

New, returning or interested candidates and members of the public are invited to learn more about the roles and responsibilities of council, who is eligible to run, the nomination process, and campaign finance and advertising rules.

The session will include presentations from the Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing and municipal solicitor Nigel Bellchamber. Attendees are encouraged to send questions in advance to their municipal clerk. Those wishing to participate in the session virtually can register by emailing election@cityofwoodstock.ca.

“Serving on council is a significant commitment. Elected officials are responsible for making decisions that directly affect the lives of residents in our communities. This session is an opportunity for potential candidates to learn about the process, ask questions and receive guidance so that they can make an informed decision about running for office,” said Jeff Bunn, Manager of Legislative Services, Deputy City Clerk and Returning Officer for the City of Woodstock.

Oxford County’s municipalities include the Township of Norwich, Township of Zorra, Township of South-West Oxford, Township of East Zorra-Tavistock, Township of Blandford-Blenheim, Town of Ingersoll, Town of Tillsonburg and the City of Woodstock.

The nomination period for candidates will be open from May 1 to Aug. 21, 2026. Election Day will take place on Monday, Oct. 26, 2026. Advance polling will also be available in each municipality.