On Air Now

  • 5195371047
  • 5195371047

Now Playing

Listen Live Listen Live HD2

Woodstock Approves Hybrid Voting for 2026

Friday, 17 January 2025 07:02

By Marcie Culbert X @marcieculbert

Woodstonians will be able to vote online or use the traditional paper ballot during the municipal election in 2026.

WOODSTOCK - Woodstock City Council has approved the hybrid voting method for the 2026 municipal election.

This means voters will be able to cast their ballot online or using the traditional paper ballot.

A report from staff included the cost estimates for the traditional, online and hybrid methods last night. The hybrid was the most expensive at $292,650, followed by online voting at $204,500 and the traditional paper ballots at $157,300.

It also included a list of pros and cons for each method. The pros for hybrid voting included the potential for an increased voter turnout and the ability of still offer the familiar voting experience for those who want to vote on paper. The cons included the potential for cyber security risks, technical issues, and lack of trust from voters.

Four councillors voted in favour of the hybrid method last night while three voted against it. In a video posted on her Facebook page, Councillor Kate Leatherbarrow said she voted in favour alongside Councillor Liz Wismer-Van Meer, Councillor Bernia Martin, and Mayor Jerry Acchione.

"I think there are valid concerns out there about cyber security, system backups and there has to be more time to allow for voting. There is speculation on all sides of online voting options, but from my perspective only more municipalities in the province of Ontario have signed on for an online option, a telephone option or a mail-in ballot."

Share

More from Local News

Comments

Add a comment

Log in to the club or enter your details below.
Rating *

Weather

Recently Played

© Copyright 2025 104.7 Heart FM (CIHR-FM) is owned and operated by Byrnes Communications Inc.. Powered by Aiir.