More municipal candidates are being acclaimed across Eastern Ontario, while voter turnout in local elections has generally been trending lower — raising questions about public engagement in local government.
The trend is evident in Carleton Place, where Mayor Toby Randell and Deputy Mayor Andrew Tennant have both been acclaimed for the 2026-to-2030 term.
The Town says each was the only certified candidate for the respective position, meaning voters will not cast ballots for either office in October. This double-acclamation is a first in the Town’s history. Mayor Randell give us his views on some of the reasons for this historic event.
The increase in uncontested races is not limited to Carleton Place. Across Ontario, the number of acclaimed candidates has risen steadily — from about 390 in 2014 to 477 in 2018 and 548 in 2022.
In 2022, 32 municipalities had every council position filled by acclamation, compared with 18 in 2014.
At the same time, municipal election participation has remained a concern, with local officials and municipal organizations looking for ways to get more residents engaged in local politics. Fewer contested races can also mean fewer opportunities for voters to hear competing ideas and compare candidates.
Randell says social media is partially responsible, not because people are afraid of being attacked online, but rather they are getting a more accurate idea of the work involved from reading posts by council members responding to residents.
For Carleton Place voters, there will still be a contested race for council.
11 candidates are seeking five council seats, so residents will have choices when they cast their ballots online or by telephone between October 19th and 26th.
Listen to our complete conversation with Randell below.
Story by Brian Turner
