Municipal elections 2022

Voters have always overlooked municipal elections. The paradox is that while the local level of government receives the least amount of public attention, the decisions made by city councillors and school board trustees have immediate and palpable effects on all residents.
According to the Association of Municipalities Ontario, since 1982, the average voter turn-out for municipal elections has hovered in the early 40th percentile. The last round of municipal elections, in 2018, netted only about 38 percent of voters.
The 2022 elections should attract more attention. There’s a lot happening that should be of interest to all residents.
A sense of change, or a desire for change, surrounds these elections, in part fueled by frustration over recent city decisions and policies—and the fact that many sitting councillors aren’t running for re-election.
As a result of a ward boundary change two years ago, residents of Cardinal Glen, and others in the western edge of Chronicle distribution area, are now a part of Rideau-Vanier ward. Current councillor Mathieu Fleury is not seeking a new term and 10 candidates have stepped up to the plate to replace him.
Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson isn’t running again, which makes the top position at city council up for grabs. Furthermore, the Ontario government’s stated intent to designate “strong mayor” powers to the mayors of Toronto and Ottawa should draw even further attention to the mayoralty, as well as the role of municipal government.
The Chronicle contacted, or attempted to contact, all candidates in the Rideau-Rockcliffe and Rideau-Vanier wards, as well as the local zones for three school boards. (The incumbent trustee for zone 11 of the French Catholic school board, Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est, has been acclaimed.) Out of a total of 23 candidates, 16 responded.
Candidates were asked to submit profiles describing themselves, their qualifications and what they see as the top priorities for their area. Their submissions have been edited for clarity and style.
Municipal election voting day is Monday October 24.
Profiles of candidates are listed below. Also, see the advice Manor Park President Natalie Belovic is offering voters.
City councillors
Ward 12–Rideau-Vanier candidates
Ward 13–Rideau-Rockcliffe candidates
School board trustees
Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) Zone 6