Information for Prospective Municipal Election Candidates

Information for Prospective Municipal Election Candidates

Thinking about running in the next Town of Morris municipal election? This page outlines who can run, how to register, nomination requirements, campaign rules, and where to find the official forms. It is a simple overview—please read all instructions on the official forms and legislation before filing.

Offices to be Elected

  • Mayor — 1 position
  • Councillor — up to 6 positions

Who Can Be a Candidate?

  • Canadian citizen and at least 18 years of age on election day
  • Qualifies as a resident/property elector in the Town of Morris (as defined by legislation)
  • Not disqualified under The Municipal Act or other applicable legislation

Step 1 — Register as a Prospective Candidate

Before accepting contributions, spending money, or advertising, you must register as a prospective candidate with the Senior Election Official (SEO).

  • Complete the Notice of Registration form (available from SEO)
  • Identify the office you intend to seek (Mayor or Councillor)
  • Submit your completed notice to the SEO (contact below)
  • Wait for confirmation of registration

Step 2 — File Nomination Papers

During the official nomination period, submit your nomination papers to the SEO. Your package typically includes:

  • Nomination paper with required signatures (as set by legislation)
  • Candidate information & declaration
  • Any required ID and additional documentation

Tip: Ensure names and addresses are clear and legible; incomplete or late submissions cannot be accepted.

Campaign Finance Basics

  • Do not accept contributions or incur expenses before you are registered.
  • Keep complete records of all contributions and expenses.
  • Follow contribution limits, source rules, and deadlines for the Financial Statement filing.
  • Leftover surplus/deficit handling must follow the rules in legislation.

Campaign Communications & Signage

  • All campaign materials must identify the candidate/campaign (where required).
  • Observe local signage by‑laws (placement, size, timing) and remove signs promptly after election day.
  • Respect public property, safety sightlines, and private property permissions.

Key Dates (to be confirmed)

  • Prospective candidate registration opens: TBA
  • Nomination period: TBA
  • Withdrawal deadline: TBA
  • Advance voting: TBA
  • Election day: TBA
  • Campaign finance filing deadline: TBA

Where & How to File

Submit forms in person or by appointment with the SEO during the official period:

Senior Election Official (SEO)
Town of Morris
Phone: 204‑746‑2531
Email: cao@townofmorris.ca

Helpful Links

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I campaign before registering?
No. You must register as a prospective candidate before accepting contributions, spending money, or advertising.

Do I have to live in Morris?
You must meet the elector qualifications set out in legislation (resident or property elector). Review the forms for details.

Where can I place signs?
Follow Town by‑laws and provincial regulations. Avoid sightline hazards and obtain permission for private property.