Ottawa’s election campaign reaches its defining moment on Monday, October 26, when eligible voters choose a mayor, city councillors and school board trustees.

Voting places generally open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., with exceptions at identified long-term care facilities and retirement homes. Residents should confirm their assigned location through the City of Ottawa’s election information before heading out. Identification must show the voter’s name and qualifying Ottawa address; photo identification is not required.

The mayoral contest includes incumbent Mark Sutcliffe and challengers Jeff Leiper, Neil Saravanamuttoo and Alex Lawson, alongside other candidates.

A Quorus Consulting survey published October 19 suggested Sutcliffe’s lead had narrowed. Among respondents expressing a candidate preference, Sutcliffe received 42 per cent support and Leiper 35 per cent. However, one-third of all respondents did not identify a preferred candidate.

The survey involved 807 Ottawa adults interviewed online between October 8 and 15. It used a non-probability panel, so a conventional margin of error cannot be calculated. These findings describe opinions during the survey period, rather than predict the final result.

For voters, the practical task is straightforward: review the candidates, confirm voting arrangements and consider who best represents their priorities.

Beyond the mayoral headlines, ward councillors and school board trustees also deserve attention. Monday’s ballots will help determine the people making decisions for Ottawa’s neighbourhoods and school communities.

Sources: City of Ottawa: key election dates; City of Ottawa: voting day information; Quorus Consulting: mayoral voting intention survey.

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