Eren Yoruk

Kitchener, ON – In Kitchener, only about one in five eligible voters cast a ballot in the 2022 municipal election. With Election Day approaching on October 26, the city is introducing new ways to encourage more residents to vote.

A total of 8,208 people voted during the advance voting period between October 8 and 20, an increase of 42 per cent compared with the previous municipal election.

Amanda Fusco, Kitchener’s director of legislated services, said voter turnout depends on several factors, including voter fatigue, campaign activity and public awareness of municipal government.

“Voter turnout is so complex,” Fusco said.

This year, the city introduced new voting options, including home voting visits, advance voting at retirement homes and long-term care facilities, drive-thru voting and “shop and vote” locations at Fairview Park Mall and Kitchener Market.

Fusco said drive-thru voting attracted just over 1,000 voters over two days, while around 1,000 people voted at Fairview Park Mall. Another 250 cast ballots at Kitchener Market.

Feedback on drive-thru voting was positive, with residents citing convenience and accessibility. However, the city has no specific voter turnout target for 2026, beyond hoping to improve on the previous election.

Fusco said municipal decisions directly affect residents’ neighbourhoods, parks, roads and libraries.

“We want everyone to make their mark,” she said.

Eligible Kitchener residents can vote on October 26 at any of the 33 voting locations within their ward. Voters must bring identification showing their name and current address.

For more details about voting in Kitchener, visit City of Kitchener website.