Thinking of Running for Council?
Candidate Information Workshop – 2026 Municipal Election
Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 7:00 p.m.
Aboyne Hall, Wellington County Museum and Archives 536 Wellington Road 18, Fergus, ON
Residents interested in learning more about serving in local government are invited to attend a Candidate Information Workshop for the 2026 Municipal Election.
Who Should Attend:
• Potential candidates
• Spouses or partners
• Anyone interested in understanding how local government works
This session will provide an overview of Council roles and responsibilities, the distinction between governance and administration, the public’s role in municipal decision-making, and the personal and family impacts of holding public office. Municipal conflict of interest rules and other statutory obligations will also be discussed.
Featured Speakers:
John Mascarin – Partner, Aird & Berlis LLP; Law Society of Ontario Certified Specialist in Municipal Law and Land Use Planning; instructor at Osgoode Hall Law School; author and Editor-in-Chief of leading municipal and planning law publications.
Kelly Linton – Municipal change specialist with more than 25 years of experience; former Mayor of Centre Wellington and Warden of Wellington County; recognized for leadership in strategic planning, infrastructure, and service improvements.
Topics Include:
• Municipal powers
• Roles and responsibilities of Council
• The public’s role in local government
• Governance vs. administration
• Municipal conflict of interest and personal obligations
• Impact of public office on family life
All interested community members are welcome to attend. There is no cost or pre-registration required.