Enhancing Engagement in Oakville: Voter and Candidate Outreach for the 2026 Municipal Election

This project addresses a key innovation challenge: how to ensure equitable access to electoral information and foster meaningful participation, especially among underrepresented groups such as tenants, youth, seniors, newcomers, Indigenous individuals, and persons with disabilities. It builds on a Council commitment made in November 2024 to improve voter and candidate support through inclusive, accessible communication.

Like most municipalities across the province, Oakville faces declining voter turnout and uneven engagement across demographic groups. Many residents encounter barriers to participation, including limited understanding of the voting process and exposure to misinformation. The Town seeks to address these issues through innovative, IDEA-informed strategies.

Key activities for the project include:
• Researching best practices and analyzing voter data
• Developing tailored outreach plans and educational resources
• Launching a digital literacy campaign to counter misinformation
• Engaging communities through events and partnerships
• Supporting candidates with IDEA-aligned tools

Faculty Supervisor:

Zachary Taylor;Kate Graham

Student:

Partner:

AMCTO;Town of Oakville

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Public administration

University:

The University of Western Ontario

Program: