Hamilton Municipal Election 2026 Resource Centre

Hamilton is at a crossroads.

Our city is facing a housing affordability crisis, rising property taxes, growing infrastructure needs, and increasing concerns about the pace and effectiveness of decision-making at City Hall. Residents, housing providers, businesses, and taxpayers are all feeling the impact.

The decisions made by City Council directly affect the cost of housing, the speed at which new homes can be built, the taxes paid by residents and businesses, and the overall economic health of our community. Yet municipal elections consistently attract lower voter turnout than provincial or federal elections, despite their significant impact on our daily lives.

The Hamilton & District Apartment Association (HDAA) has created this Election Resource Centre to help voters stay informed, hold elected officials accountable, and engage in the issues that will shape Hamilton's future.

On this page, you will find:

  • Information on declared candidates

  • Voting records and key decisions made by current members of Council

  • HDAA election articles and policy analysis

  • Election news and updates

  • Resources to help voters better understand the issues facing Hamilton

Why This Election Matters

Hamilton needs leadership that is focused on results.

For too long, housing supply has failed to keep pace with demand, making it harder for families, young professionals, seniors, and newcomers to find homes they can afford. Excessive red tape, lengthy approval timelines, and increasing development costs have contributed to a shortage of housing options across the city.

At the same time, residents continue to face significant property tax increases while expecting responsible stewardship of public funds and better outcomes from municipal government.

This election provides an opportunity for voters to evaluate whether current policies are working and whether City Hall is delivering the accountability, transparency, and results that Hamilton deserves.

The HDAA believes that a stronger Hamilton requires:

  • More housing of all types and at all price points

  • Faster approvals and less unnecessary bureaucracy

  • Responsible taxation and fiscal accountability

  • Transparent decision-making and measurable results

  • Policies that support investment, growth, and economic prosperity

These issues affect everyone, whether you rent, own a home, operate a business, or provide housing in our community.

Key Election Dates

Nomination Period Opens: May 1, 2026
Nomination Deadline: August 21, 2026 at 2 pm
Advance Voting: October 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18
Election Day: October 26, 2026

Election Resources

Hamilton Key Dates & Register to Vote: https://www.hamilton.ca/city-council/municipal-election

List of Candidates:
https://www.hamilton.ca/city-council/municipal-election/candidates-third-party-advertisers/candidates

Get Involved

Municipal elections are decided by those who participate.

You can make a difference by:

  • Voting on Election Day

  • Learning about the candidates and their positions

  • Attending debates and community events

  • Asking candidates where they stand on housing, affordability, taxation, and accountability

  • Volunteering for a campaign

  • Encouraging friends, family, colleagues, and neighbours to vote

The future of Hamilton will be shaped by the choices voters make in this election. An informed and engaged electorate is essential to building a city that is more affordable, more accountable, and better positioned for long-term success.

Your vote matters. Use it.