The Sault Ste.
Marie election enters a key stage Wednesday as five mayoral candidates prepare to meet for a public debate less than two weeks before voting day.
The debate is scheduled for October 14, 2026, at the Quattro Hotel and Conference Centre, with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. and the discussion beginning at 6 p.m.
The event is expected to give residents an opportunity to compare the candidates’ priorities on issues facing the city, including homelessness, encampments, public safety, roads, property taxes and the local economy.
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Sault Ste. Marie election candidates
The City of Sault Ste.
Marie’s certified list names Josh McNally, Selva Rasaiah, Joel Rowswell, incumbent Mayor Matthew Shoemaker and Matthew Toffelmire as candidates for mayor.
The mayoral race is part of a broader municipal election that will also determine councillors in the city’s five wards and several school board trustee positions.
Residents will elect one mayor and up to two councillors in their ward.
The official voting day is Monday, October 26, 2026.
Issues shaping the mayoral race
Homelessness and encampments have become prominent issues in the campaign as the city considers how to balance public safety, enforcement, housing availability and access to support services.
The candidates have also been asked to explain how they would respond to pressure on municipal finances, infrastructure needs and concerns about the condition of roads.
Those issues are closely tied to the next council’s budget decisions.
The mayor and council will set priorities for municipal services while working within the limits of property-tax revenue and other funding sources.
The debate may also offer voters a clearer comparison of the candidates’ approaches to attracting investment, supporting local businesses and responding to economic pressures affecting Northern Ontario communities.
How residents can vote
Advance voting is available at the Bay Street Active Living Centre 55+, located at 619 Bay Street.
- Wednesday, October 14: noon to 7 p.m.
- Saturday, October 17: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Monday, October 26: regular voting day across the city
The city has advised electors to confirm their assigned voting location before voting day.
Voters may also need to ensure their information is correct on the voters’ list.
The October 14 advance poll overlaps with the mayoral debate, meaning residents who want to vote before election day can do so earlier in the day and attend the evening event.
What happens next
After the debate, the campaign will move into its final stretch, with candidates expected to continue meeting voters and outlining their plans before October 26.
Municipal election results will determine the city’s political leadership for the next four-year term.
For residents still comparing candidates, the debate provides a timely opportunity to hear the mayoral contenders address the same questions and explain how they would lead the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Sault Ste. Marie mayoral debate?
The debate is scheduled for Wednesday, October 14, 2026. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the debate begins at 6 p.m.
Where is the Sault Ste. Marie mayoral debate being held?
The event is being held at the Quattro Hotel and Conference Centre in Sault Ste. Marie.
Who is running for mayor in Sault Ste. Marie in 2026?
The certified mayoral candidates are Josh McNally, Selva Rasaiah, Joel Rowswell, Matthew Shoemaker and Matthew Toffelmire.
When is election day in Sault Ste. Marie?
The 2026 municipal election takes place on Monday, October 26, 2026.
Where can residents vote before election day?
Advance voting is available at the Bay Street Active Living Centre 55+, 619 Bay Street, on October 14 from noon to 7 p.m. and October 17 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Fact-Checked: Key dates, voting details and the certified mayoral candidate list were checked against official City of Sault Ste. Marie election information and the event announcement. ([saultstemarie.ca](https://saultstemarie.ca/government/municipal-elections/2026-candidates/?utm_source=openai))
Disclaimer: Event details and voting information may change; residents should confirm final arrangements with the City of Sault Ste. Marie before attending or voting.