Municipal Election 2026: Who’s Running in the Township of Melancthon

Here are the candidates running for mayor, deputy mayor, councillor and school board trustee in Melancthon.

September 1, 2026 | Barbara Fletcher | News Desk

Mayor

Ruth Plowright (current council member)

What experience or background do you bring to the table?
I bring four years of experience as a councillor, as well as 37 years volunteering in our area and a strong background in business and leadership. I have managed 24 sales representatives as Ontario and East Coast Sales Manager and have been a business partner with Libertevision. As councillor, I have served on several boards and committees and worked on the Horning’s Mills Community Hall improvements, programmes, arenas, infrastructure and our library partnership. I have also completed an Osgoode Law Certificate in Municipal Law and Governance, giving me a stronger understanding of the responsibilities and challenges facing our municipality.

What is an important issue affecting your community, and where do you stand on it?
Protecting our water is one of the most important issues facing Melancthon. The proposed below-water-table quarry raises serious concerns about protecting our groundwater and the long-term health of our community. I believe we must make decisions based on sound science, transparency and the protection of our most valuable resource – water. As mayor, I will continue working with residents, neighbouring municipalities, Indigenous communities and all levels of government to ensure our water is protected for generations to come.

Why should voters elect you?
Voters should elect me because I bring experience, leadership, common sense and a genuine commitment to Melancthon. I am working closely with the MNR and Ministry of Environment on the quarry application we have. I have worked hard to make our community stronger. I listen to residents, work collaboratively and am not afraid to stand up for what I believe is right. As mayor, I will focus on protecting our water, improving road safety, strengthening our community and ensuring taxpayers receive responsible and accountable government. I want to lead with integrity, respect and results.