Kawartha Lakes moves to keep internet and phone voting for 2026 municipal election

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Inititiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: Residents of Kawartha Lakes could again cast their votes, online or by phone, in the 2026 municipal election. This, following a presentation to council, on November 4th, by, City Clerk, Cathie Ritchie. The proposal, presented during a Committee of the Whole meeting, would see the continued use of internet and telephone voting, not only for the election of Mayor, Councillors, and School Board Trustees, but also for any by-elections held, during the 2026–2030 Council term.

Ms. Ritchie told councillors, a by-law will be brought forward under Section 42 of the Municipal Elections Act, 1996, to formally authorize these alternative voting methods, including advance voting. “Internet and telephone voting have proven to be the most accessible and efficient way for residents to participate in the democratic process,” she said.

The rationale behind the move focuses on accessibility. For voters with disabilities or seasonal residents, who may be away during the election period, online and phone voting offer convenient options. To ensure inclusion, multiple in-person voting support locations will be set up across the municipality, including City Hall, Service Centres, and public libraries. Staff will be on hand to assist voters using tablets or computers, and an Election Help Line will be available. Election staff will also visit long-term care and retirement homes, to assist residents in casting their ballots.

Mayor Doug Elmslie emphasized the importance of accessibility in modern elections. “Our goal is to make sure every eligible voter, in Kawartha Lakes, has the opportunity to participate, regardless of where they are or what challenges they may face on election day,” he said.

The move aligns with trends across Ontario, where internet and telephone voting have become increasingly common. In 2022, 217 municipalities used these methods, up from 175 in 2018. In Kawartha Lakes, the 2022 municipal election saw 83.3 percent of votes cast online and by phone, with in-person assisted voting representing just over 14 percent of ballots.

Councillor Mike Perry noted, the method also supports the City’s environmental and strategic goals. “By reducing paper ballots and the need for transportation, internet voting not only makes elections more accessible but also helps reduce our environmental footprint,” he said.

The Clerk’s report recommends, Council formally approve the continued use of internet and telephone voting, for the 2026 Municipal Election, as well as, for any by-elections during the term. Once approved, the by-law authorizing the alternative voting method will be brought forward, at the next Regular Council meeting.

The City currently budgets $70,000 annually, to reserves, to fund municipal elections over the four-year term. Council members expressed confidence, maintaining modern voting options is a fiscally responsible choice which meets residents’ needs, while keeping Kawartha Lakes at the forefront of election accessibility and efficiency.