The Province of Ontario has approved legislative changes that will reduce the size of Town Council, beginning with the 2026 municipal election.
The change is enabled through Bill 100, which amended the Municipal Act, 2001 by introducing Section 218.2.2. The legislation provides the Minister with the authority to make regulations prescribing the composition of Council for the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, as well as the City of Thorold and the City of Port Colborne.
Under the legislation, the Minister may establish the number of Council members, determine ward structures, specify election formats, and implement transition rules necessary to support the updated Council composition.
The approved regulation confirms that, beginning with the 2026 municipal election, Niagara-on-the-Lake Council will consist of seven members, including the Lord Mayor, all elected by general vote in accordance with the Municipal Elections Act, 1996.
In March of 2026, Niagara-on-the-Lake Town Council approved a motion supporting a reduction in Council size to improve governance efficiency and streamline decision-making processes. Additional information regarding Council’s previous direction can be found in this news release.
“This legislative change represents an important step toward implementing a Council structure that supports effective governance while continuing to serve the needs of our community,” said Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa. “This change was part of a coordinated response to concerns regarding amalgamation and reflects the Town’s ongoing collaboration with our Local Area Municipalities and the Province of Ontario. We appreciate the Province’s collaboration on this matter and will continue working through the next steps required to implement the changes for the 2026 election.”
“The Town remains committed to ensuring residents are kept informed throughout the transition process,” said CAO Nick Ruller. “As additional direction and regulations are provided by the Province, Staff will continue preparing for the administrative and procedural requirements associated with the upcoming municipal election.”
These changes will impact the upcoming 2026 Municipal and School Board Election, bringing the previous structure of eight Council members to six, in addition to the Lord Mayor. The regulation also confirms that the 2026 municipal election will be conducted using the new Council composition. Election information and updates will continue to be posted on the Town’s election webpage.
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Media Contact:
Marah Minor, Corporate Communications Lead
905-468-3266 | communications@notl.com