FAQs

In-person/paper ballot voting:

In-person voting requires voters to visit a polling station on election day or during advanced voting days. At the polling station, voters check in, verify their identity, and fill out a paper ballot. Ballots are tabulated on-site and placed in a secure, sealed box.

• This voting method is the most traditional way to vote and is familiar to those who have previously voted. 
• Election assistants are available on-site to provide clear direction and assistance with the voting process. 
• This voting method can be challenging for those with mobility issues, or those who cannot otherwise make it to their designated polling station. 
• This method has limited voting hours and long wait times can deter people from voting.

Online voting:

Voters use a secure website to cast their ballot online. Voters log in with unique login credentials (such as a username and password), and fill out and submit their ballots digitally. 

• Online voting is convenient. During advanced voting days or on election day, you can cast your vote from anywhere, anytime. 
• Online voting results are tabulated instantly. 
• This voting method may not be as accessible for those who do not have technology or access to the internet. 
• Online voting systems can be vulnerable to outages, technological issues and security breaches.

Telephone/dial-in voting:

Voters call a secure phone line to cast their ballot over the phone. They provide identifying information (such as a PIN or voter ID), listen to the prompts and select options via a keypad or voice. 

• This option is accessible for those with mobility or vision impairments. 
• Voters can cast their ballot from their mobile device or home phone anywhere with phone access/service. 
• Telephone voting systems can be vulnerable to hacking or impersonation. 
• It can be difficult to accurately confirm voter identity remotely. 

Mail-in voting:

Paper ballots are mailed to voters, who then complete their ballot and return it to the City of Quinte West. 

• Mail-in voting can be helpful for those who travel and can not be present at a polling station.
• Fewer physical polling locations are needed. 
• Ballot counting takes longer with mail-in voting. 
• Ballots sent by mail may get lost or arrive late.  

The next municipal election is in October 2026.

In a municipal election, Quinte West voters will vote for: 

• Mayor
• Ward councillor(s)
• School board trustees

Information on becoming a candidate, voter registration and more will be available in late 2025.