North Bay will transition to online-only voting for the 2026 municipal election following approval from city council. The decision was made on May 13, 2026, with officials citing reduced costs and the success of digital voting in previous elections.
Reasons for the Change
Council members highlighted that 70% of voters used the online option during the 2022 election, demonstrating strong public adoption. The move is expected to save the city significant funds by eliminating the need for physical polling stations and paper ballots. Additionally, online voting is seen as a way to increase accessibility for residents with mobility issues or those living in remote areas.
Security and Accessibility Concerns
While the decision was largely praised, some councilors raised concerns about cybersecurity and ensuring all residents have equal access to the internet. The city plans to invest in robust security measures and provide alternative options for voters without reliable internet access, such as in-person assistance at designated locations.
North Bay joins a growing number of municipalities across Ontario that have adopted or are considering online-only voting. The 2026 election will serve as a test case for broader implementation in future cycles.
