Timmins hosted council candidate training March 18 ahead of Oct. 26 municipal election

The City of Timmins held a “So, You Want to Run for Council” training session on March 18, with 23 participants, including two people from Iroquois Falls who the city said were preparing to run in their own municipal election. Timmins’ next municipal election is scheduled for Oct. 26, 2026.

With nominations and campaigning ahead later this year, the workshop laid out what municipal council work involves, including the rules council members must follow and how decision-making powers are used.

Amberley Gavel Ltd., a municipal governance consulting firm, led the session.

The city listed the workshop’s topics as the roles and responsibilities of members of council, the head of council and municipal staff; how municipal powers are exercised; conflict of interest and code of conduct requirements; the role of the Integrity Commissioner; and strong mayor powers.

City Clerk and Director of Community Services Steph Palmateer said the turnout reflected interest in serving on council.

“Municipal council operates within a very prescribed legislative framework, and it’s important that prospective candidates understand the responsibilities and expectations of the role,” Palmateer said.

The city described the session as a way for people considering a run for office to learn about the role before entering the nomination process.