By Cecilia Nasmith/Today’s Northumberland
Seven months ahead of the municipal and school-board elections on Oct. 24, the Town of Cobourg’s Legislative Services Division has launched a website that can help everyone be as prepared as possible – cobourgvotes.ca, dedicated to keeping residents informed as they decide who will hold office between Nov. 15, 2022, and Nov. 14, 2026.
“We are excited to launch cobourgvotes.ca to share timely and important information with residents throughout this year’s election process,” said Director of Legislative Services and Municipal Clerk – and Election Returning Officer – Brent Larmer.
“Municipal council decisions affect the daily lives of all residents,” Larmer said.
“Cobourg residents are encouraged to get involved, stay involved and exercise their right to vote, and consider running for local government.”
The town continues to make voting easier and more convenient by allowing residents to Vote Anywhere – with the flexibility to cast allots across many electronic platforms (including the option to call in your vote by phone).
The website, which will be updated throughout the election process, includes:
Frequently Asked Questions
Voter information on the electoral process including where and how to vote
Information for candidates, such as the nomination process and campaigning details.
The voting period for the Town of Cobourg runs from 9 a.m. Friday, Oct. 14, through 8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 24.
Eligible Voters
The Municipal Elections Act 1996 sets the rules for municipal elections, including eligibility to vote. To cast a ballot in this election, you must be:
A Canadian citizen
At least 18 years of age
A resident in the Town of Cobourg, or a non-resident of Cobourg if you or your spouse own or rent property in the town
Not otherwise prohibited to vote under the Municipal Elections Act 1996 or bylaw
To ensure your information is up to date, check the Voter’s List managed by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation.
Eligible Candidates
The nomination process opens Monday, May 2, and closes at 2 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 19. To qualify, a candidate must meet all of the conditions set out:
Be a Canadian citizen
Be at least 28 years of age
Be a resident in the Town of Cobourg, or non-resident if you or your spouse own or rent property in the town
Not be otherwise prohibited from running under the Municipal Elections Act 1996 or bylaw
Anyone interested in running as a candidate can find more details at cobourgvotes.ca. The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing also produces a Candidate’s Guide with information for candidates in municipal and school-board elections, which will become available early this year.
Please also check the website for an upcoming Candidate Information Session in late April.
Accessibility
The Town of Cobourg is committed to providing accessible voting for everyone. The 2022 elections accessibility plan is now available on the website.