Elections, AAP, Assent Voting

2026 General Local Election

In British Columbia, general local government elections must take place every four years. This ensures consistent governance across all municipalities and regional districts.

The 2026 General Local Election will be held on October 17. By casting a ballot, eligible voters will elect the Mayor and six (6) Councillors who will represent the Town of Ladysmith, as well as School Trustees who will serve the local school district, for the next four years.

Voting Opportunities

The 2026 General Local Election takes place on October 17 at the Frank Jameson Community Centre from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm.

Under the Local Government Act, the Town of Ladysmith is required to hold two Advance Voting opportunities. These will take place on October 7 and October 14 from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm at City Hall.

Key Dates

Curious about the 2026 General Local Election timeline? Here’s a quick list of key dates so you don’t miss anything important.

* Date is subject to receipt of ballots from the printer.

Election Notices

• Notice 7-3
• Notice 8-1

Who Can Vote

Qualified Resident and Non-Resident Property Electors are eligible to vote in the 2026 Local Government Election. Please see our Voter Information web page for more information.

If you have not yet registered to vote, you can do so through Elections BC’s website.

Mail Ballot Voting

Mail ballot voting is available to all eligible electors and may include options other than mailing your ballot, such as picking it up or dropping it off in person. It is the responsibility of each elector to ensure their completed mail ballot is received by the Chief Election Officer before the close of voting at 8:00 pm on Saturday, October 17, 2026.

Mail ballots will be distributed in early October.

Please see our Mail Ballot Voting web page for more information.

Candidates

Individuals who wish to run for local government office in a general local election must meet specific eligibility requirements to be nominated. Provincial legislation also sets out the rules governing election campaigns, campaign financing, and how candidates may promote their candidacy.

Please see our Candidate Information web page for details.

Additional Resources and Forms

• FAQs
• 2026 Candidate Nomination Package
• Nanaimo-Ladysmith Public School Trustee Election Information

Questions?

For questions about the 2026 Election? Please contact:

• Chief Election Officer: Sue Bouma
• Deputy Chief Election Officer: Hayley Young
• Email: vote@ladysmith.ca
• Phone: 250-245-6400