Municipal Election 2026: Who’s Running in the Town of Shelburne

Here are the candidates running for mayor, deputy mayor, councillor and school board member in Shelburne.

August 1, 2026 | Barbara Fletcher | News Desk

Post updated on September 1, 2026.

Mayor

Wade Mills (incumbent)

Email: [email protected]
Website: facebook.com/mayorwademills

What experience or background do you bring to the table?
I bring extensive municipal experience, deep community roots and a strong professional background to the position. I have served as Shelburne’s mayor for eight years, following an earlier term on council, and was elected by my peers to two consecutive terms as Dufferin County Warden. Having grown up here and remaining actively involved in the community, I understand Shelburne’s history, its changing needs and the opportunities ahead. As a lawyer with a local practice, I also bring proven analytical, problem-solving and consensus-building skills to the mayor’s office.

What is an important issue affecting your community, and where do you stand on it?
One of Shelburne’s most important challenges is managing growth without losing what makes our community special. Growth brings opportunity, but also places pressure on infrastructure, services, recreation, healthcare and municipal finances. Over the past eight years, we have planned ahead and invested strategically to address those pressures. I believe growth must be responsible and contribute to the community – not simply add to it. That means ensuring developers pay their fair share, investing in essential infrastructure and amenities, broadening our commercial and employment base, and strengthening the connections between neighbours that create a genuine sense of community and belonging.

Why should voters elect you?
I offer proven experience, demonstrated results and a deep commitment to Shelburne. Over the past eight years as mayor, we have advanced critical infrastructure, strengthened the town’s financial position, invested in our community, and planned responsibly for growth. Important work remains, and we cannot afford to lose momentum. I know the issues, understand municipal government, and have built the relationships needed to move our priorities forward. I am ready to continue leading from day one – providing steady, experienced leadership, bringing people together, and moving Shelburne forward, together.

Pratheeb (PK) Uthayakumar

Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.pkformayor.com

What experience or background do you bring to the table?
I am a community member, business owner and principal lawyer of PK Law & Associates PC. Through my legal practice, I help people and businesses navigate legal and practical challenges. As a member of the Shelburne Rotary Club, I contribute to community initiatives and support the services that strengthen Shelburne as a place to live. My work has taught me to listen carefully, understand competing perspectives and find fair solutions. I understand the pressures facing families and the need for responsible, transparent and forward-looking municipal decisions. I bring professional judgment, leadership, problem-solving skills and accountability while putting Shelburne’s long-term interests first.

What is an important issue affecting your community, and where do you stand on it?
One of the most important issues facing Shelburne is managing growth responsibly while ensuring that infrastructure and community services keep pace. Growth can bring opportunity, but only if we plan carefully for roads, water, recreation, healthcare access, public safety and affordability. I believe the town must be proactive rather than reactive, making timely investments before problems become more expensive and difficult to solve. I also support stronger collaboration with residents, community partners and other levels of government to expand services. Shelburne should grow in a way that protects the quality of life for all residents.

Why should voters elect you?
I am prepared to bring an accountable and solutions-focused approach to municipal leadership. I believe Shelburne can plan better, communicate better and deliver stronger results for residents. My priorities include responsible growth, affordability, safer neighbourhoods, support for local businesses, improved community services and greater access to health and recreation opportunities. I will listen, ask questions and make decisions based on evidence and the best interests of our community. I want residents to feel that their mayor is accessible, responsive and working for them. With a shared vision, strong leadership and a community willing to work together, nothing is impossible.

Deputy Mayor

Len Guchardi (current council member)

Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082563163484

What experience or background do you bring to the table?
Having lived in Shelburne for over 60 years, I’ve spent my life contributing to our community. My career includes 22 years teaching at CDDHS and 15 years in broadcast. I currently serve on Shelburne Town Council, and semi-retirement allows me more time to focus on town concerns. I’ve led as DEI Chairperson and actively served with the BIA, Canada Day and the CDRC committees. My volunteer work with the Shelburne Food Bank, Special Olympics and other community and county events keeps me connected. I’m proud to be a 2024 Rotary Community Hero and 2025 Melvin Jones Humanitarian.

What is an important issue affecting your community, and where do you stand on it?
Shelburne is growing faster than ever before. While this incredible growth brings new neighbours, businesses and vibrant opportunities, it also presents important challenges that require thoughtful, forward-looking management. My vision is for sustainable growth, fiscal transparency and accessible trails, parks and recreation in Shelburne. I understand our unique challenges and opportunities, and I’m dedicated to making Shelburne a vibrant, inclusive and welcoming home for every family.

Why should voters elect you?
Shelburne deserves a Deputy Mayor who is fully dedicated to the job. For the first time in eight years, voters in Shelburne have the opportunity to elect a full-time, experienced representative who will show up, put in the work, and advocate for our town at both the local and county levels. My goal is simple: balance smart, sustainable growth with fiscal responsibility, all while building a brighter long-term future for everyone in our community.

Andrea Knight

Email: [email protected]

What experience or background do you bring to the table?
I bring a strong combination of education, leadership, advocacy and community experience. I hold degrees in community development, social work and education. As president of Minor Track Association of Ontario, I gained hands-on leadership experience, strengthening my ability to lead an organization, address concerns, bring people together and make decisions that serve the broader community. My collaborations with city officials, mayors, municipalities, community stakeholders, educators, law enforcement and legal professionals have strengthened my ability to build relationships, understand different perspectives and address complex issues. I believe effective leadership starts with listening, asking thoughtful questions, gathering facts and making informed decisions.

What is an important issue affecting your community, and where do you stand on it?
Ensuring that our services in Shelburne keep pace with its growth. As our population increases, healthcare, community safety, youth opportunities, senior support and essential services must grow alongside it. My background in community development, social work and education has taught me that strong communities begin with listening to residents and understanding their needs. I support responsible, well-planned growth through strong partnerships, community involvement and pursuing grants and funding opportunities while remaining mindful of taxpayers. Growth is not simply about how much Shelburne grows, but how well we grow, while remaining safe, connected, accessible and welcoming for everyone.

Why should voters elect you?
I bring proven leadership, community involvement and a strong commitment to public service. Residents deserve a deputy mayor who is accessible, listens to their concerns, asks the right questions and follows through. I am prepared to advocate for residents, build strong partnerships and work collaboratively to address the challenges and opportunities facing Shelburne. I will approach decisions with an open mind, consider facts and remain accountable to the people I represent. Most importantly, I will bring a community-first approach to the council table — one focused on responsible growth, transparency, collaboration, and ensuring residents have a meaningful voice in Shelburne’s future.