Two events offer chance to get to know Minto’s municipal candidates
MINTO – As the Oct. 26 election approaches, candidates are getting out in the community to introduce themselves and their campaigns to voters, and organizations are planning events to help connect candidates with constituents.
There are 12 Minto residents vying for five councillor positions: Paul Zimmerman, Shawn McDonald, Ron Elliott, Joe Park, Susan Thurston, Mike Roesch, Judy Dirksen, Jennifer Gibson, Patrick Raftis, Louise How, Debra Dennison and Joe Andrade.
Current Mayor Dave Turton will be acclaimed as no one else ran for his position.
Jean Anderson and Marté Pronk are in the running for deputy mayor.
Sept. 17 event
The Carry-On Women’s Institute is hosting a meet-and-greet for Minto council candidates on Sept. 17 from 6pm to 7:45pm at James Street United Church (215 James St., Palmerston).
After a brief mingling period with coffee and dessert, each candidate will be given two minutes to introduce themselves, then draw a question to answer within three minutes.
The Carry-On Women’s Institute has been operating in Palmerston since 1938, and focuses on education, advocacy and wellness for women.
It’s a branch of the Federated Women’s Institutes of Ontario, a non-profit that “offers education programming and community support; advocates for social, environmental and economic change, and works towards the personal growth of all women, for home and country,” according to its website.
Oct. 7 event
The Minto Chamber of Commerce is holding an all-candidates event at the Harriston Community Centre (111 George St. S.) from 6:30 to 8:30pm on Oct. 7.
“Meet the candidates ... and hear firsthand about their platforms, vision and key priorities for the future of our community,” event organizers invite.
To submit a question ahead of time, visit mintochamber.on.ca/programs/all-candidates-2026.
The Minto Chamber of Commerce is a volunteer organization that formed in 1999 and works closely with local government and other organizations to ensure the voice of local business is heard and plays a role in the direction of the community, according to its website.
