Brock election enters final days as voting continues

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

BROCK: With less than a week remaining in the municipal election voting period, Brock residents have until 8 p.m., on Monday, October 26th, to choose who will represent them on municipal council and the Durham District School Board.

Internet and telephone voting opened on Saturday, October 17th, giving eligible voters the flexibility to cast their ballots from home, at any time before the deadline. All seven elected municipal positions are contested, with 18 candidates seeking seats at the council table.

The mayoral race features incumbent Mike Jubb against challenger Brenda Thyne. Mr. Jubb became acting mayor following Walter Schummer’s resignation, in May of 2025, and was acclaimed as mayor-elect afterwards. He is now seeking a full term.

The regional councillor contest will see incumbent Cria Pettingill face Peter Frank, currently the Ward 1 councillor.

Ward 1 has attracted the largest field of municipal candidates, with Peter Teolis, John Rush, Beth Josephson, and Claire Doble all vying for the seat. Ms. Doble currently represents Ward 2 but is seeking election in Ward 1.

In Ward 2, Ron Den Braasem and Diana Vessel are competing for the council seat.

Ward 3 voters will choose between Chris Shier, Mike Samis, and Glenda Nicholson.

In Ward 4, incumbent Ron Hodgson is seeking re-election, against challenger Sally Morgan.

Ward 5 features a contest between Anthony Macoretta and former regional councillor Ted Smith.

Residents will also cast ballots in the Durham District School Board trustee race, with Paul Breeze, James Bountrogiannis, Dave Brown, and Netalia Duboisky seeking two trustee positions, representing Brock, Scugog, and Uxbridge.

Voters, who have received their Voter Information Letter, can cast their ballots online, at brock.simplyvoting.com, or by telephone, using the number and instructions provided in the letter.

Both options are available, 24 hours a day, throughout the voting period. Online voting can be completed using a computer, tablet or smartphone with an internet connection.

Residents, who: have not received a Voter Information Letter, need assistance, or do not have access to an internet-connected device, can visit a Voting Assistance Centre during designated hours. Voters should bring their letter, if received, and valid identification.

The Municipal Administration Building, at 1 Cameron Street East, in Cannington, will offer assistance, on: Thursday, October 22nd, from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday, October 23rd, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Saturday, October 24th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Monday, October 26th, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Additional assistance will be available, at the Sunderland Fire Station, 217 River Street, and the Foster Hewitt Memorial Community Centre, 176 Main Street in Beaverton. Both locations will be open on Thursday, October 22nd, from 4 to 8 p.m., Saturday, October 24th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Monday, October 26th, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Eligible voters can request a Voter Information Letter or a Ballot-on-Demand at these locations.

The township plans to publish unofficial election results on its website, as soon as possible, after voting closes, at 8 p.m., on Monday, October 26th.

Before results can be released, the votes cast online, by telephone, and through Ballot-on-Demand must be combined. Official results will be posted once certified by the municipal clerk.

Online voters will be invited to complete a brief survey about their voting experience. Those voting by telephone or in person are also encouraged to complete a survey, with feedback intended to help shape future municipal elections.

With contested races for mayor, regional councillor, and every ward seat, the results will determine the makeup of Brock’s next municipal council. Residents who have not yet voted have until Monday evening to make their choices.