Council Vacancy | Municipality of Kincardine

Deputy Mayor Clarke resigned on April 13, 2026. On April 22, 2026 Council declared the seat vacant, and appointed Councillor Hinchberger as the new Deputy Mayor in accordance with the Municipal Act and the Municipal Elections Act.

As the vacancy falls after March 31 in the year of a regular municipal election, a by-election is not permitted per the Municipal Elections Act. Council must appoint a replacement by June 21, 2026. The appointed individual will serve the remainder of the term, ending November 14, 2026.

In accordance with Council’s Vacancy Policy as amended, the Municipal Act, 2001, and the Municipal Elections Act, Council has directed staff to invite applications from a defined group of eligible individuals. Applications will be accepted only from the following groups:

Unsuccessful candidates from the 2022 Regular Municipal Election
Members of Council from the previous two terms of Council (2014-2018 and 2018-2022)
Unsuccessful candidates from the 2024 Council vacancy process to fill the seat of Councillor Kennedy

Notices have been issued directly to individuals within these groups.

The vacancy will be filled following the Council Vacancy Policy Appendix B Procedure to Appoint an Eligible Elector to fill a Vacancy.

Application Period

Applications will be accepted by the Clerk's Office during regular business hours, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday commencing at 8:30 a.m. on April 29, 2026 until May 15, 2026 at 3:00 p.m.

A candidate may withdraw their application by filing a written withdrawal in person with the Clerk's Office by 2 p.m. on May 20, 2026.

Applicant Information

Applicants must complete and submit the following document in person to the Clerk at the Municipal Administration Centre, located at 1475 Concession 5, Kincardine, in order to be considered for this vacancy. E-mailed or faxed copies of these documents will not be accepted.

Council Vacancy Application Form
Declaration of Qualifications Form
Freedom of Information (FOI) Release Form
Expression of Interest for consideration of Council including the applicant's background information, relevant qualifications, and why the person is interested in the vacant office. Expressions of Interest will be typewritten on letter size (8.5" x 11") paper; shall not exceed two (2) pages in length, one sided; and will include the applicant's name and address.

An Uncertified List of Candidates will be posted as applications are filed. The Official List of Candidates will be certified by the Clerk by 4 p.m. on May 15, 2026.

Uncertified List of Applicants

McKeeman, William J.

159 Lake St
Kincardine ON, N0G2T0

647-227-2318
bill.mckeeman@live.ca

Council Appointment Meeting

There will be an opportunity for applicants to present to Council at the Council Appointment Meeting on June 3, 2026 at 5 p.m. in the Council Chambers at the Municipal Administration Centre, 1475 Concession 5, Kincardine. The agenda for the meeting will be posted on our website.

At this Council Appointment Meeting, Council will vote on the appointment of a new Councillor. The vote shall be taken in open session.

The appointed Councillor will swear their Oath of Office and be formally appointed to the position of Councillor by By-Law.