Considering a Run for Office? Sign Up for AMO’s Free Candidate Workshop Series

(Lake of Bays, ON) The next municipal election is approaching on October 26, 2026, and now is the time for residents to start thinking about taking an active role and exploring what it takes to serve on Council.

Free Candidate Training Series
To support both first-time and returning candidates, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is offering a ‘Stronger Leaders, Stronger Communities’ online workshop series.

This interactive program serves as a candidate starter kit, offering practical tools, campaigning basics, peer connections, and strategies to prepare for the nomination period beginning May 1, 2026. Sessions address real challenges candidates face, including explaining why you are running, managing conflict and criticism, balancing personal wellbeing, and turning values into action.

Who Should Attend

• Community members considering a run for municipal office in 2026
• First-time or returning candidates seeking confidence and clarity
• Civic leaders exploring if elected office is right for them

Workshop Schedule
Participants can choose to attend one or more of the following evening sessions:

• March 10, 2026, at 6:30 PM: Session 1 - Leading with Purpose and Authenticity
• April 7, 2026, at 6:30 PM: Session 2 - Managing Conflict and Building Relationships
• April 28, 2026, at 6:30 PM: Session 3 - Prioritizing Mental Health and Well-being
• May 19, 2026, at 6:30 PM: Session 4 - Turning Values into Action

Registration is free, but space is limited and fills quickly. The Township of Lake of Bays urges community members to sign up for the series, gain practical insight into what it takes to run, and consider stepping forward as candidates when nominations open on May 1, 2026.

Learn more and register today through AMO’s Healthy Democracy Project.

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For more information, contact:
media@lakeofbays.on.ca