2026 Municipal Election Candidate Spotlights
Connecting Candidates & Community in Muskoka
Get to know some of the candidates running in Muskoka’s 2026 municipal elections.
Explore candidate profiles, stories, interviews, and more, and hear directly from the people seeking to represent their communities.
Matt Young
Township of Lake of Bays
Mayoral Candidate
“Affordability, responsible development, economic opportunity, and protecting our environment are challenges that require thoughtful and balanced leadership. Matt believes Council must consider not only what growth can bring, but how that growth will affect local residents, businesses, infrastructure, and the environment.”
Donna Kearney
Town of Bracebridge
Macaulay Ward Candidate
“I like talking with people to hear what truly matters to them and then work on a strategy that aligns. I think it is important to stay connected to the people I serve because I know opinions and priorities change over time. It will be my intention, if elected to council, to hold public engagement opportunities in Macaulay Ward so I am easily accessible. I also understand the value of following through on something because once the trust of the people you serve is lost, you will no longer be effective in your role.”
Larry Brassard
Town of Gravenhurst
Ward 3 Candidate
Larry is a resident of Ward 3, where he has resided since 2012. A career firefighter (44 years) and police officer (20 years), Larry served as Fire Chief in Gravenhurst from 2012 through 2021. During that time, he served on the Town’s Senior Management Team, building corporate budgets and helping manage many issues affecting the community.
Pamela Jeffery
Township of Muskoka Lakes
Ward C Candidate
“As a 5th generation Minett, I feel a deep connection to Muskoka. My great-great grandparents Charles and Fanny Minett built Clevelands House.
I am the only candidate who brings a 40+ year track record of working inside government at the highest levels to the Council table. I enjoyed a successful career in public service, community building and advocacy after graduating with my HBA and MBA from the Ivey Business School.
My career began at Queen’s Park in the Industry Minister’s Office, followed by 20 years in government relations helping executives navigate Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill. I served as Ontario Communications Advisor to Prime Minister Martin (2004 Election) and helped the late Ken Dryden transition to politics!”
Learn more about Pamela…
James Bowler
Township of Huntsville
Town and District Councillor Candidate
“When I make decisions, like my decision to run for District Council in Huntsville, I do it thinking, how can this benefit the people around me?
I want to give back to the community that I’ve fallen in love with by supporting it.”
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