Lanark Highlands is going paperless in the 2026 municipal election.
They’re following suit with most area municipalities, who except for Drummond/North Elmsley, offered phone and internet voting in 2022.
Drummond/North Elmsley offered phone, internet, and paper voting in the last election but recently decided to go paperless next year.
It’s too convenient of an option to ignore, said Councilor Jeannie Kelso.
Audio PlayerClerk Nicole Guthrie said there’s added variables, and cost, to paper voting.
Audio PlayerResidents can still vote in-person should they choose at their typical voting location, it will just be on provided iPads. Staff will be on hand to provide any required assistance.
Lanark Highlands saw a 33.26% voter turnout in 2022, slightly above the provincial average of 32.90%. Clerk said her personal goal is to see a 40% turnout in 2026, with staff to soon undergo a lengthy and aggressive awareness campaign.
Story by Grant Deme