Uncontested Seats Threaten Local Democracy | Calgary News

Calgary News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 20, 2026 · 1m

Ontario’s municipal elections are facing a troubling trend: more seats are going uncontested, leaving communities with fewer choices and less diverse representation. Experts warn this undermines democracy, especially in rural areas where it’s worsening. With low council pay, inflexible meeting times, and recent provincial changes that allow appointed chairs, many potential candidates are being sidelined. The Association of Municipalities is urging locals to run — because your town’s council shapes everything from housing to safety — but the system needs reform to make service accessible to…