Planning to run in the municipal election? Nomination packages now available

News Release

Thinking about stepping up and making a difference in your community? Run for local office. Nomination packages for Kelowna’s 2026 municipal election are now available through the City of Kelowna’s Office of the City Clerk.

This fall, Kelowna voters will elect a mayor, eight councillors and four school trustees for School District No. 23.

Anyone interested in running for office is encouraged to visit kelowna.ca/election to download the candidate information package. It outlines who’s eligible to run, how the nomination process works, and what to expect before, during and after an election. Packages are also available in person at Kelowna City Hall, 1435 Water Street.

“Serving your community is a meaningful way to help shape the future of Kelowna,” said Michael Jud, Chief Election Officer. “We encourage people who are curious about running to learn more about the role and the election process so they can make an informed decision.”

To be eligible to run for local office, candidates must be a Canadian citizen, be at least 18 years old on election day, have lived in British Columbia for at least six months before the nomination date, and not be disqualified from holding office.

Nomination papers must be submitted to the Office of the City Clerk beginning 9 a.m. on September 1 and closes at 4 p.m. on September 11.

Attend an Election 2026 information session

Anyone interested in running for mayor or councillor in Kelowna’s 2026 general local election is invited to attend a free information session to learn what it’s like to serve on City Council and how to run in the upcoming election.

Sessions will be held:

• Wednesday, Aug. 12, 6 p.m.
• Wednesday, Aug. 19, 6 p.m.

Sessions will take place in Council Chamber at Kelowna City Hall (1435 Water Street) and will also be available online via Microsoft Teams. No registration is required. Links to join online will be posted on the election website on the day of each session.

Staff from the Office of the City Clerk will provide an overview of Council’s role and responsibilities, the nomination and election process, key timelines, and available supports and resources. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask questions.

Prospective candidates and voters with questions can contact the Office of the City Clerk at [email protected], 250‑469‑8645, or in person at City Hall.

New this election: faster check‑in with advance registration

Kelowna is using the provincial voter registry for the first time this October. Sign up on the B.C voters list to speed up your check-in on voting day. Register now at elections.bc.ca/register.

Find all the election details and subscribe to email updates at kelowna.ca/election.