Have your say on voting methods for the 2026 Municipal and School Board Election

On Monday, Oct. 26, 2026, voters in St. Catharines will head to the polls to elect their municipal and school board representatives. But how you vote is just as important as who you vote for — and that’s where we need your input.

The City of St. Catharines is exploring different voting options for the 2026 Municipal and School Board Election. We want to know which methods you prefer, how you’ve voted in the past, and how we can make voting as accessible, secure and convenient as possible.

What Voting Methods Are Being Considered?

We’re reviewing a range of voting methods to better meet the needs of our community. Here’s a quick look at what’s on the table:

In-Person Voting

This traditional method allows voters to cast their ballot at a designated polling station on election day or during advance voting days. Polling stations are staffed by trained election officials and typically located at community centres, schools or public buildings. Voters must show identification and mark a paper ballot by hand, which will be processed through a vote tabulator.

Online Voting

Online voting (also known as internet voting) allows you to vote securely using a computer, tablet or smartphone during the advance voting period. You would receive a secure access code and vote from anywhere with an internet connection — no need to travel or line up.

Vote-by-Mail

With vote-by-mail, an elector would be required to register to receive a vote-by-mail package. You complete your ballot at home and return it by mail or to a drop-off location. This method is helpful for voters who prefer not to vote in person or are unable to do so.

Why Your Input Matters

Your feedback will help City Council decide which voting methods to offer in the 2026 election. We want to ensure that every eligible voter in St. Catharines has the opportunity to vote in a way that is:

• Secure – protecting the integrity and confidentiality of your vote
  
• Accessible – providing equal opportunity to participate
• Convenient – making it easier to fit voting into your day

Take The Survey

We’ve created a short survey to gather your input. It only takes a few minutes to complete, and your responses will help shape voting methods in St. Catharines in 2026.

The survey results will provide staff with insight as a final report is prepared for Council consideration in June 2025.

Stay Informed

To learn more about the 2026 Municipal and School Board Election, including key dates and voting eligibility, visit stcatharines.ca/Elections.

Together, we can ensure the voting process works for everyone in St. Catharines.