Media Release - April 23, 2026 - Municipality Initiates Process to Fill Councillor-at-Large Vacancy

KINCARDINE, ON - 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 will be issued directly to individuals within these groups next week. In addition, notice of the full appointment process will be advertised in the local newspaper and on the municipal website for general awareness.

Please visit www.kincardine.ca/CouncilVacancy for more information and a helpful Frequently Asked Questions.

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Media Inquiries:
Jennifer Lawrie, Clerk
Municipality of Kincardine
519-396-3468 x 7111
clerk@kincardine.ca